Investigation of gene amplification and expression in prostate cancer

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis was to identify significant genetic amplifications and protein expression of a gene or genes that have not been recognised as overamplified to date in prostate cancer. Methods used: -- 1) Investigation of possible gene amplifications in prostate cancer: Laser capture microdissection was used to identify/capture malignant glands from three tissue samples of prostate cancer and benign glands from one case of benign prostatic hyperplasia. By utilising this technology we could ensure that we were examining genetic changes in epithelial cells only and thus avoid the background noise of genetic changes within the stroma.