Abstract
Objective: To study the expression of Transforming Growth Factor beta-1 (TGF-β1) and Tumor protein 53 (Tp53) in osteoblastoma and osteosarcoma and the role of TGF-β paradox in the progression of these tumors. Materials and Methods: Twenty-two paraffin blocks were collected and classified into 7 blocks with classical osteoblastoma and 15 blocks with osteosarcoma. From each block, slide preparation for H&E and immunohistochemical staining by two markers: anti TGF-β1 antibody and anti Tp53 antibody were applied. Then we estimated the expression of each marker by ImageJ (version 1.41) and area fractions were measured. Results: Both classical osteoblastoma and osteosarcoma showed positive expression of TGF-β1. The expression of Tp53 was positive in osteosarcoma, but it was negative in osteoblastoma. Our statistical analysis revealed that the expression of TGF-β1 in osteosarcoma was stronger than in osteoblastoma but with no statistically significant difference. There was a significant moderate negative correlation between expression of the two markers in osteosarcoma. Conclusion: The mutual signaling is the main pillar in the progression of osteosarcoma and osteoblastoma. Interaction pathways between Tp53 and TGF-β1 may have a role in TGF-β paradox. Understanding this interaction may help in improving of the management and prognosis of osteosarcoma.