MAGE-1

The melanoma antigen-encoding gene (MAGE) family consists of up to 24 genes, which are expressed in a range of malignant neoplasms. MAGE-1 encodes a 46 kDa protein which is expressed in a very limited range of normal tissues, in malignant melanomas and other neoplasms. Since it is detected by cytotoxic T-cells, it has been proposed as a target for immunotherapy.

Immunohistochemical expression

Normal tissues:

• germ cells; spermatogonia and primary spermatocytes

• placenta

Tumours:

• melanomas

Diagnostic utility

• As a member of a panel for the identification of malignant melanomas: it is probably inferior to S-100, HMB-45, tyrosinase and Melan-A.

References

Gajjar, N. A., A. J. Cochran, et al. (2004). "Is MAGE-1 Expression in Metastatic Malignant Melanomas Really Helpful?" Am J Surg Pathol 28(7): 883-8.

This page last revised 18.7.2004.

©SMUHT/PW Bishop