Lectin Histochemistry of Normal and Neoplastic Canine Mammary Gland Epithelial Cells

Abstract

Lectin histochemical study was done on canine mammary gland epithelial cells of 6 groups (normal, hyperplasia, adenoma, adenocarcinoma, benign mixed tumor and malignant mixed tumor). Among ten lectins used, three lectins showed an apparent alteration in the binding activity following neoplastic changes. Namely, Dolichos biflorus and Helix pomatia specific for terminal N-acetylgalactosamine residue bound more strongly to the surface of epithelial cells in adenocarcinoma and malignant mixed tumor. In addition, Ulex europaeus specific for terminal fucose residue showed stronger binding activity in mammary neoplasma irrespective of malignancy.