Studies have reported that Id-1 (inhibitor of DNA binding, or differentiation 1) protein, helix-loop-helix (HLH) transcription factor, has important roles in the development of several carcinomas. However, the role of Id-1 protein in salivary adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is not clear. The expression of Id-1 protein was assessed in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded surgical specimens of ACCs by immunohistochemical staining. Thirty-nine of the 54 specimens of ACC stained for Id-1expression, which was significantly more than was found in pleomorphic adenomas (4/12) and normal salivary gland tissues (1/10, p<0.05). There were also significant differences between stages I and II (7/14) and III-IV (32/40) (p<0.05). Of tumours with metastases, 31/38 stained for Id-1, which was significantly higher than among those without metastases (8/16) (p<0.05). Our results showed that Id-1 may have important roles in the development of salivary ACC. It might also be a useful therapeutic tool to help prevent salivary ACC or to inhibit its malignant progression.
Copyright 2009 The British Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.