The Association of Intra-Tumoral and Stromal Vitamin D Receptor (VDR) Expressions with Molecular Subtypes and Clinicopathological Factors in Breast Carcinoma

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the association between intra-tumoral and stromal VDR expressions with molecular subtypes and clinicopathological factors. Methods: A total of 75 formalin-fixed paraffin embedded tissue samples were stained using immunohistochemical methods. The VDR expressions were measured by counting brown-stained nuclei in intra-tumoral and stromal areas. The association of VDR expression with molecular subtypes and clinopathological factors was examined. Statistical analysis was performed by chi square tests. Results: High intra-tumoral VDR expression was found in carcinomas with luminal molecular subtypes (p=0.039) and low histological degrees (p=0.035). High VDR expression in the stroma was found in breast carcinomas with large tumor sizes. Conclusions: High intra-tumoral VDR expression is found in breast carcinomas with luminal subtypes and low histological grade (I/II). Both factors are known to have a good prognosis. These findings further strengthen the function of VDR as anti-tumorigenesis.