Immunohistochemical localization of BCL-2 in ameloblastoma

Abstract

The BCL-2 gene product has been reported to block apoptosis and to contribute to tumorigenecity. This study examined whether BCL-2 expression was involved in the development of ameloblastoma. We carried out immunohistochemical studies of 20 cases of ameloblastoma using anti-BCL-2, anti-PCNA antibodies, and the TUNEL method to identify DNA fragmentation in situ. By immunohistochemical techniques, BCL-2 expression was observed in all specimens except those that were decalcified.
Localization of BCL-2 was found at nuclei and cell membranes of the peripheral layer. The TUNEL method showed positive reactions at epithelium with squamous metaplasia and a trend toward cornification. These results suggested that the BCL-2 gene product might contribute to the development of ameloblastoma by the blocking apoptosis at the peripheral layer of the epithelial islets.