DNA topoisomerase IIα expression in optic pathway gliornas of childhood

DNA topoisomerase IIalpha (Topo IIalpha) is linked to tumour cell growth and chemoresistance. We examined immunohistochemically Topo IIalpha expression levels in a series of 36 consecutive paediatric optic pathway glioma (OPG) patients. Topo IIalpha labelling index (LI) ranged from 0.0 to 11.6 and was significantly associated with patient age, with higher levels of Topo IIalpha in children less than or equal to3 years (P = 0.031). Topo IIalpha expression did not correlate with patient survival. Topo IIalpha LI was not significantly increased in specimens of repeat surgery. Topo IIalpha LI closely correlated with MIB-I LI (R=0.781, P<0.001), We conclude that Topo II alpha expression correlates with tumour cell proliferation in paediatric OPGs. Assessment of cell proliferation. however, does not assist in refining prognostic predictions. Enhanced Topo II alpha expression in children <= 3.0 years suggests that Topo II alpha-interfering anticancer compounds for adjuvant treatment of OPGs may be of particular benefit to young children. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.