Histology sections (3 m), obtained from formalin fixed, paraffin embedded specimens, were stained with hematoxylin-eosin. Paraffin-embedded tumors (
n = 89) were analyzed for MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, and PMS2 proteins (Lanza et al., 2006 (
link)). Immunohistochemical analyses were performed using standard procedures. Primary antibodies used were for MLH1 (clone ES05; Dako, Glostrup, Denmark), PMS2 (clone EP51; Dako), MSH6 (clone EP49; Dako),
MSH2 (clone FE11; Dako), TLR4 (clone 76B357.1; Abcam, Cambridge, United Kingdom). Immunocomplexes were detected using an avidin-biotin-peroxidase conjugate and 3-3 di-aminobenzidine tetrahydrochloride chromogen as a substrate (
ABC Kit, Vector Laboratories, Burlingame, CA, United States; and
DAB kit Dako, Glostrup, Denmark). Slides were scored by a GI expert pathologist (F.C.) as either positive or negative based on the presence or absence of nuclear staining for each MMR protein in the tumor cells. Each slide contained a unique number that enabled blinding with respect to patient identity and clinical characteristics. TLR4 expression was graded on a semi quantitative scale (negative, low, moderate or high). Ten random fields (x63) from each sample were examined.
Scarpa M., Ruffolo C., Kotsafti A., Canal F., Erroi F., Basato S., DallAgnese L., Fiorot A., Pozza A., Brun P., Bassi N., Dei Tos A., Castoro C., Castagliuolo I, & Scarpa M. (2021). MLH1 Deficiency Down-Regulates TLR4 Expression in Sporadic Colorectal Cancer. Frontiers in Molecular Biosciences, 8, 624873.