Expression of Cocaine- and Amphetamine-Regulated Transcript is Associated with Worse Survival in Small Bowel Carcinoid Tumors

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Introduction: Cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART) peptide acts both as a neurotransmitter and hormone. We recently demonstrated that CART is expressed in several types of neuroendocrine tumors.

Aim(s): The main objective of the present study was to examine whether CART expression is associated with survival in small bowel carcinoid patients. Secondary aims were to assess if CART is associated with other tumor characteristics or clinical symptoms.

Materials and methods: Specimens from 97 patients were examined for CART expression using immunohistochemistry, and a three-tier CART score was introduced. On inclusion, specimens were examined by routine histopathological methods and detailed clinical patient data were retrieved. The effect of CART on cell viability was assessed in vitro using an enteroendocrine tumor cell line.

Conference: 9th Annual ENETSConcerence (2012)

Presenting Author:

Authors: Landerholm K, Shcherbina L, Falkmer S, Järhult J, Wierup N,

Keywords: neuroendocrine tumor, carcinoid, CART, survival, prognostic factors,