Expression of genes MAGE-1, -2, and -3 by human maxillary carcinoma cells.

We analysed the expression of melanoma antigen-encoding (MAGE) gene-1, -2, and -3 in 20 maxillary carcinomas consisting of two cell lines: freshly isolated cancer cells from specimens from 13 patients, and 5 biopsy specimens. The cells were subjected to reverse transcription by the polymerase chain reaction. Fourteen (70%) out of 20 maxillary carcinomas expressed at least one of the MAGE genes. In contrast, five control samples of inflammed mucosa from the maxillary sinus of patients with chronic sinusitis were all negative for the expression of these genes. Results indicated that patients with maxillary carcinoma may be good candidates for specific immunotherapy.