Alterations of high endothelial venules in primary and metastatic tumors are correlated with lymph node metastasis of oral and pharyngeal carcinoma

• DOI: 10.4161/cbt.27328
• Publication Date: 2013-12-18T16:21:51Z
• Authors: Hui Shen; Xiang Wang; Zhe Shao; Ke Liu; Xiao-Yan Xia; Han-Zhong Zhang; Kai Song; Yong Song; Zheng-Jun Shang
• Keywords: High endothelial venules; Primary tumor; Homing (biology); Lymphocyte homing receptor

High endothelial venules (HEVs) are special blood vessels in the paracortical region of lymph nodes (LNs) and govern lymphocyte recruitment. LN metastasis has similarity to circulating lymphocytes homing LNs, but role HEVs progression oral pharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) is unclear. In this study, we found that experienced a series morphological functional changes during OPSCC were correlated with metastasis. 9 cases 73 metastatic tumor emboli located adjacent or just out not lymphatic channels. Gap junctions cells close decreased disappeared, gaps left at contact points where attached HEVs. Moreover, proliferation rate was highest LNs. Finally, L-selectin detected both primary tumors, it facilitated adhering conclusion, our findings suggest remodeled play important process by preparing premetastatic soil for cancer