Trefoil factors: tumor progression markers and mitogens via EGFR/MAPK activation in cholangiocarcinoma.

Aim: To investigate trefoil factor (TFF) gene copy number, mRNA and protein expression as potential biomarkers in cholangiocarcinoma (CCA).

Methods: TFF mRNA levels, gene copy number and protein expression were determined respectively by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (PCR), quantitative PCR and immunohistochemistry in bile duct epithelium biopsies collected from individuals with CCA, precancerous bile duct dysplasia and from disease-free controls. The functional impact of recombinant human (rh)TFF2 peptide treatment on proliferation and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling was assessed in the CCA cell line, KMBC, by viable cell counting and immunoblotting, respectively.