Metallothioneins (MT) represent low molecular weight proteins that are supposed
to fulfil several functions. They participate in the cell cycle, protect cells
from oxidative stress, control levels of heavy metals and participate in multidrug
resistance processes, particularly in cases of alkylating drugs. The present study
aimed at evaluation of proliferation intensity (Ki67, PCNA) in ovarian cancers
treated using cisplatin and paclitaxel, as related to expression of MT.
The experiments were performed on samples originating from 10 patients operated
on due to ovarian cancer. The material originated from the first operations
or second-look operations. All the patients were treated with cisplatin and paclitaxel.
Immunocytochemical reactions using antibodies to MT, Ki67 and PCNA
were performed in paraffin sections originating from the cases studied. Statistical
analysis was performed using Statistica software. The studies demonstrated
no relation between expression of MT on the one hand and intensity of proliferation
before or after chemotherapy on the other hand (gamma correlation,
p > 0.05). The results indicate that expression of MT is not related to resistance
to treatment using cisplatin and paclitaxel
