Nerve growth factor suppresses the transforming phenotype of human prolactinomas.

• DOI: 10.1073/pnas.90.17.7961
• Publication Date: 2006-05-31T12:29:36Z
• Authors: C Missale; F Boroni; M Losa; M Giovanelli; A Zanellato; R Dal Toso; A Balsari; P Spano
• Keywords: Prolactinoma; Prolactin cell; Nude mouse

The most effective therapy of human prolactinomas is represented by dopamine D-2 receptor agonists; there is, however, a population nonresponder patients who require surgical intervention. In the present study, we report that totally resistant to pharmacological have high potential both growing in soft agar and forming tumors nude mice lack receptors for dopamine. These express nerve growth factor (NGF) are sensitive its differentiating activity. After exposure NGF 4 days, prolactinoma cells decreased their proliferation rate, lost capability form colonies agar, tumorigenic activity mice, reexpressed lactotroph-specific protein inhibiting prolactin release. effects were permanent after withdrawal reproducible vivo transplanted with tumors. fact remarkably lastingly depressed tumor induced expression when injected intravenously once day 5 days into prolactinoma-bearing mice. data suggest may induce long-lasting switch gene prolactinomas, modifying transforming phenotype reverting them more differentiated, less malignant, dopamine-sensitive lactotroph-like cells. possibility thus arises short-term treatment restore refractory conventional agonists.