Immunohistochemical expression of heat shock proteins HSP27, HSP70, HSP90 and HSP110 in salivary gland tumors: a study of 50 cases

Heat shock proteins (HSPs) are known to be increased in response ro biologi cal stress. Recently, some authors described their presence in tumors. Our immunohistochemical investigations revealed the expression of HSP27, HSP70, HSP90 ann HSP110 in most of benign tumors of salvary glands (33 cases). In the malignant tumors. the reaction was immunopositive for HSP70 and HSP90 in 13/17 cases; but HSP27 and HSP110 were only expressed in 5/17 cases. In conclusion HSPs were expressed less in malignant than in benign cells. Thes e results suggest that the loss of some HSPs may be a possible sign of mali gnancy.