OBJECTIVES: To clarify the relationship between the expression of GST-pi and the therapeutic effects of high-dose combination chemotherapy with support by autologous bone-marrow transplantation (ABMT). METHODS: Expression of GST-pi in tissue specimen were analyzed by indirect immunoperoxidase methods using anti-GST-pi polyclonal antibody. RESULTS: (1) Eighteen of 36 cases (50%) tested prior to administration of any chemotherapeutic agents were found to be positive in terms of immunohistochemical expression of GST-pi in the cancer cells. (2) The rate of GST-pi expression was elevated following administration of cisplatin, adriamycin, and cyclophosphamide, which suggests that administration of such anti-cancer agents is capable of inducing expression of GST-pi in cancer cells. (3) GST-pi negative patients exhibit better survival rates than do GST-pi positive patients (Kaplan Meier method: p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Analysis of GST-pi obtained at primary surgery can serve as a valid marker in anticipating chemotherapeutic effects and long-term prognoses.
OBJECTIVES: To clarify the relationship between the expression of GST-pi and the therapeutic effects of high-dose combination chemotherapy with support by autologous bone-marrow transplantation (ABMT). METHODS: Expression of GST-pi in tissue specimen were analyzed by indirect immunoperoxidase methods using anti-GST-pi polyclonal antibody. RESULTS: (1) Eighteen of 36 cases (50%) tested prior to administration of any chemotherapeutic agents were found to be positive in terms of immunohistochemical expression of GST-pi in the cancer cells. (2) The rate of GST-pi expression was elevated following administration of cisplatin, adriamycin, and cyclophosphamide, which suggests that administration of such anti-cancer agents is capable of inducing expression of GST-pi in cancer cells. (3) GST-pi negative patients exhibit better survival rates than do GST-pi positive patients (Kaplan Meier method: p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Analysis of GST-pi obtained at primary surgery can serve as a valid marker in anticipating chemotherapeutic effects and long-term prognoses.