Lectin expression in neoplastic and non-neoplastic lesions of the rectum.

The expression of six lectins (Arachis hypogaea, B. simplicifolia I, concanavalin A, Dolichus biflorus, Triticum vulgaris, Lotus tetragonolobus) was studied in 24 adenocarcinomas, 24 adenomas, 20 metaplastic polyps, 17 specimens of mucosal prolapse (solitary ulcer syndrome) and 10 of normal mucosa, all taken from the rectum. Qualitative, quantitative and distributive differences in lectin expression were observed between adenocarcinoma and normal mucosa. These cancer-associated glycoprotein alterations were also observed, though to a lesser extent, in benign neoplastic and non-neoplastic lesions of the rectum. It appears therefore that the glycoprotein modifications associated with malignant transformation are not specific indicators of malignancy. It is suggested that the common denominator is a disturbance in the activities of enzymes, particularly the glycosyl-transferases and glycosidases, involved in the biosynthesis of glycoprotein. This disturbance can occur in situations where cells are less differentiated either through developmental immaturity, rapid cellular division or neoplastic de-differentiation. These changes are therefore more likely to reflect the state of differentiation rather than the malignant nature of the cells. It is shown that the greater the deviation of the lesion from normal the greater the glycoprotein alterations. The potential usefulness of lectin expressions as predictive indicators of biological behaviour of adenocarcinomas of the large bowel needs further studies.