Expression Of Autophagy-Related Genes BECLIN1 And MAPLC3 In Invasive Pituitary Adenomas

Objective: To explore the relationship between expressions of autophagy-related genes Beclin1 and microtubule-associated light chain protein 3(MAPLC3) in pituitary adenomas with its invasiveness.Methods: 61 specimens of pituitary adenomas were classified into invasive and non-invasive groups according to the comprehensive evaluation of invasive pituitary adenomas.The protein expressions of Beclin1 and MAPLC3 in the invasive and non-invasive groups were detected by immunofluorescence analysis and western blot, and their mRNA expressions were detected by RT-PCR.Results: 32 specimens of pituitary adenomas were invasive and 29 were non-invasive.The protein expressions of Beclin1 and MAPLC3 were significantly lower in invasive pituitary adenomas than that in non-invasive pituitary adenomas.Their mRNA expressions were lower in invasive group too.Conclusion: The expressions of autophagy-related genes Beclin1 and MAPLC3 are lower in invasive pituitary adenomas, which may relate to their invasiveness.