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Background: cancer/testis genes (CT-genes) are a family gene which only express in normal testis tissue some of them are randomly expressed in some types of cancers. The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency of expression of CT-genes in the patients with breast cancer.
Materials and Methods: Thirty two breast cancer tissue samples were prepared. Expression of NY-ESO-1 1a, NY-ESO-1 1b, SCP1, SSX-2 and MAGE-3 genes, as well as GAPDH (internal control), were studied by multiplex RT-PCR method.
Results: Three (9%) of 32 tumor samples expressed mRNA of NY-ESO-1 1a, while six (19%) of 32 tumor samples expressed mRNA of NY-ESO-1 1b. Seven (22%) and two (6%) of 32 tumor samples expressed mRNA of SCP1 and mRNA of MAGE3, rtepectively. Overall, Thirteen (41%) samples expressed one of the studied genes.
Conclusion: NY-ESO-1 and SCP1 genes had the highest frequency of expression of mRNA. It is suggested that more number of breast cancer tumor samples should be examined to evaluate expression of CT-genes. SCP1 and NY-ESO-1 proteins may promote future breast cancer immunotherapy.