Aim: To investigate the role of delta-like ligand 4 (DLL4) in the angiogenesis of high-grade malignant glioma. Materials and Methods: DLL4 expression and microvessel density (MVD) were detected by immunohistochemistry in 51 human high-grade malignant glioma tissue samples. The vessel maturation index (VMI) was calculated as the percentage of a-smooth muscle actin (a-SMA)-positive vessels in relation to the amount of CD31-positive vessels. Double fluorescent immunostaining for CD31 and EphrinB2 or EphB4 was performed to identify the arterial (EphrinB2) or venous (EphB4) origins of glioma microvessels. Results: Strong immunostaining of DLL4 and a positive correlation of DLL4 with the MVD were observed in high-grade malignant gliomas. The VMI of the DLL4-positive group was significantly higher than that of the DLL4-negative group. However, no significant association was found between DLL4 and EphrinB2 or EphB4 in high-grade gliomas. Conclusion: DLL4 may be an important regulator for vessel proliferation and maturation in human high-grade malignant gliomas.

Keywords:
Delta-like ligand 4, Microvessel, Angiogenesis, Malignant glioma
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2012
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