Cytokine receptor expression by solid tumours.

The expression of cytokine receptors by a variety of solid tumour tissues was examined, using an immunofluorescence procedure optimized for sensitivity. Several cytokines generally considered as relevant only to the immune and haematopoietic systems were shown to be expressed by solid tumours. For example, breast carcinoma frequently expressed both chains of the IL-3 receptor, the beta chain of the IL-2 receptor, the TNF type two receptor, the signal-transducing chain CD130, and c-kit. The broad expression of cytokine receptors suggests that the receptor profile of individual tumours should be determined before the application of therapy that involves the administration of cytokines.