High frequency of expression of MAGE genes in human hepatocellular carcinoma

Aims/Background: Activation of human MAGE genes leads to the expression of a set of tumor rejection antigens, which are recognized by cytotoxic T lymp hocytes. The antigens may become the targets of immunotherapy. The expressi on of MAGE genes was originally found in, but is not restricted, to melanom as. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of MAGE genes i n human hepatocellular carcinomas. Methods: The expression of MAGE-1, -2, - 3, -4 genes in tumorous and corresponding non-tumorous liver tissue was stu died using a reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. Results: In t he 50 hepatocellular carcinomas studied, MAGE-1 -2, -3, -4 mRNA expression was detected in 23 (46%), 17 (34%), 21 (42%) and 8 (16%), respectively. Sev enty-four percent of the hepatocellular carcinomas expressed at least one o f the MAGE genes. MAGE mRNAs were not detected in the corresponding non-tum or liver tissues. MAGE gene expression was not significantly correlated wit h clinicopathological factors. Conclusions: The MAGE genes are expressed in a high percentage of hepatocellular carcinomas: the MAGE gene products are potential targets for tumor-specific immunotherapy.