Description
One gene that contributes to the development of Wilms’ tumor is WT1. WT1 mRNA has been found in the kidney, spleen, and gonadal ridge mesoderm of healthy human tissues. Additionally, WT1 expression has been detected in ovarian granulosa cells and testicular sertoli cells. Wilms’ tumors and most mesotheliomas have been shown to include WT1 (nuclear and paranuclear staining). The majority of acute leukemias have also been shown to include WT1, whereas cells from chronic myelogenous leukemia do not. In certain cancer cases, cytoplasmic staining has been seen; this could indicate cross-reactivity with an epitope unrelated to WT1.
