Purpose: Cox-2, a prostaglandin synthase, is overexpressed in colorectal cancers and is involved in angiogenesis as well as in tumorigenesis. In this study, we investigate the expression of Cox-2 in retinoblastoma.
Methods: Twenty-nine formalin-fixed retinoblastoma specimens were examined by the labeled-streptavidin-biotin method using anti-Cox-2 antibody.
Results: Cox-2 positive immunoreactions were observed in 28 (96%) of 29 retinoblastomas specimens.
Conclusion: This preliminary study suggests the overexpression of Cox-2 in both differentiated and undifferentiated retinoblastoma and its possible role in tumorigenesis.