The Significance of p16~(INK4a) protein Expression in the CINs and invasive carcinoma of the cervix

Objective To discuss the expression of p16INK4a protein and its clinical pathological characteristics in the CINs and invasive carcinoma of the cervix.Methods The expression of p16INK4a protein in 68 cases of CINs and 36 cases of invasive carcinoma of the cervix were detected by immunohistochemical staining.Results p16INK4a protein positive express rate was 39.7%(27/68) in CINs and 66.6%(24/36)in invasive carcinoma of the cervix.p16INK4a protein positive express rate in invasive carcinomaCIN ⅢCIN ⅡCIN Ⅰ(P=0.004).p16INK4a protein positive express rate was significantly difference in the different stages of CINs(P=0.03).We demonstrate overexpression of the p16INK4a protein is significantly difference between CINs and invasive carcinoma of the cervix(P=0.0001).Overexpression of the p16INK4a protein is significantly higher in CIN Ⅲ and invasive carcinoma of the cervix than that in CIN Ⅰ and CIN Ⅱ.Normal cerviacl epithelium and cervical ectopia are p16INK4a-negative.Conclusion It is suggested that p16INK4a protein expression,especially overexpression of p16INK4a protein may be taken as an effective biomarkers for early detection of high risk groups in CIN lesion.