In situ hybridization assay of androgen receptor gene in hepatocarcinogenesis.

AIM: To determine the correlation between expression of androgen receptor (AR) gene and hepatocarcinogenesis. METHODS: Male SD rats were used as experimental animals and the animal model of experimental hepatocarcinoma was established by means of 3’-me-DAB administration. Androgen receptor mRNA was detected by a non-radioactive in situ hybridization assay in neoplastic and non-neoplastic liver tissues. RESULTS: The expression of androgen receptor mRNA was observed only in neoplasticcells and some atypical hyperplastic cells. In the liver tissue of control animal and the remaining normal liver cells adjacent to the carcinoma tissue, no positive signal was seen. CONCLUSION: Androgen has an important correlation with hepatocarcinogenesis and the expression of androgen receptor gene might be a mark event during hepatocarcinogenesis.