BACKGROUNDConnexin (Cx), a transmembranous protein, makes up of gap junction, which induces the communication of cells and plays an important role in proliferation and differentiation of cells. The directly or indirectly reduced expression of connexin protein may induce a malignant tendency of cells. E-cadherin is a transmembranous glycoprotein and induces the adhesion of epitheliums and extracellular matrix. The reduced expression or dysfunction of E-cadherin will impair the ability of adhesion and make cells easy to be isolated. The aim of this study is to examine the expressions of Connexin 43 (Cx43) and E-cadherin in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and to analyze their correlation.

METHODSThe expressions of Cx43 and E-cadherin proteins were detected in 85 primary NSCLC samples by immunohistochemistry S-P method, and their correlation was then analyzed.

RESULTSThe expressions of Cx43 and E-cadherin were remarkably decreased in NSCLC tissues. Cx43 and E-cadherin expressions were related to cell differentiation, pTNM stage and lymphatic metastasis of NSCLC. The expression of Cx43 significantly correlated with the expression of E-cadherin.

CONCLUSIONSThe expressions of Cx43 and E-cadherin significantly decrease in NSCLC and they correlate with each other. It might be common affairs in carcinogenesis and development of NSCLC.