Analysis of UbcH10 expression represents a useful tool for the diagnosis and therapy of astrocytic tumors

Previous studies suggest the expression of UbcH10 gene, that codes for a protein belonging to the ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme family, as a valid indicator of the proliferative and aggressive status of tumors of different origin. Therefore, to look for possible tools to be used as diagnostic markers in astrocytic neoplasias, we investigated UbcH10 expression in normal brain, gliosis and low-grade and high-grade astrocytic tumors by immunohistochemistry. UbcH10 expression was observed in low-grade astrocytoma and in glioblastoma. Our data indicate a clear correlation between UbcH10 expression and the histological grade of the astrocytic tumors. Moreover, the analysis of UbcH10 expression allows the differentiation between gliotic and malignant tissues. Finally, since proteasome inhibitors have recently been considered as possible drugs in the chemotherapy of various tumors, our results would suggest new perspectives for the treatment of brain malignancies based on the suppression of the UbcH10 function.