Correlation between VEGFR-2 receptor kinase domain-containing receptor (KDR) mRNA and angiotensin II receptor type 1 (AT1-R) mRNA in endometrial cancer

PurposeAngiogenesis, a multistep process that results in new blood vessel formation from preexisting vasculature is essential for both the growth of solid tumour and for metastasis. Stimulation of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR), a transmembrane glycoprotein, results in mitogenesis. Within this family of receptors, VEGFR 2/kinase-insert-domain containing receptor appears to be principally upregulated during tumorigenesis. The aim of this study was to determine the expression of VEGFR-2/kinase-insert-domain containing receptor (KDR) and its correlation with angiotensin receptor type 1 (AT1-R) and clinical factors in endometrial carcinoma.MethodsThe expression of KDR and AT1-R was studied in endometrial carcinoma and normal endometrium by Real-time RT-PCR and Western blot analysis in 136 samples. The expression profile was correlated with the clinicopathological characteristics of endometrial adenocarcinoma.ResultsWe noted a significant correlation between the expression of KDR and AT1-R in tumour grade G1, G2 and G3 (Rs = 0.50; p = 0.002, Rs = 0.69; p = 0.0001, Rs = 0.52; p = 0.005, respectively). In stage I and stage II carcinoma, a significant correlation was also found between the expression of KDR and AT1-R (Rs = 0.70, p = 0.0001, Rs = 0.67; p = 0.001, respectively). Moreover significant correlation was observed between both KDR and AT1-R in tissue with different myometrial invasion (Rs = 0.54, p = 0.0001, Rs = 0.68; p = 0.0001; respectively for tumours with invasion into the inner half and invasion into the outer half).ConclusionsBasing on received correlation between AT1-R and KDR expression and previous results we speculate that angiotensin through AT1-R modulates KDR expression and thus have influence on local VEGF level. However, further studies are required to clarify the biological interaction between KDR, AT1-R and other hormonal regulators in endometrial carcinoma.

► Correlation between the expression of KDR and AT1-R in G1, G2 and G3 was noted. ► In stages I and II, correlation was found between the expression of KDR and AT1-R. ► Correlation was observed between KDR and AT1-R in tissue with myometrial invasion. ► The angiotensin through AT-1R modulated KDR expression and local VEGF level.