Objective: Heparanase, galectin-3, and tissue factor (TF) are overexpressed in solid malignant thyroid tumors. We studied their expression in multinodular goiters (MNGs).
Design and methods: Thyroid tissue specimens from 15 MNGs were obtained during surgery. mRNA expression for galectin-3, heparanase, and TF was assessed by RT-PCR.
Results: Isolated expressions of heparanase and galectin- 3 mRNA were expressed in 2 and 4 of the 15 MNGs, respectively; 8/15 MNGs were positive for both heparanase and galectin-3. TF mRNA was found in all MNG specimens.
Conclusion: Galectin-3, heparanase, and TF RNA expression is prevalent in MNGs. Further studies will be needed to determine the prognostic significance of these findings.