Alpha smooth muscle actin ( αSMA) immunohistochemistry use in the differentiation of pancreatic cancer from chronic pancreatitis

Objectives In pancreatic cancer (PDAC) and chronic pancreatitis (CP) similar mechanisms of fibrosis occur. The main cells involved in fibrosis are pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs), which constitute about 4-7% of the total pancreatic mass. In response to damage, inflammation or cancer, PSCs are activated and transformed into myofibroblast -like cells, gain the muscle cell phenotype and express alpha smooth muscle actin ( αSMA), which is considered to be the best known fibrosis marker.
Source: Pancreatology - Category: Gastroenterology Authors: Tags: 8. Pancreatic Cancer I Source Type: research