Disruption of pRb-p16INK4 pathway: a common event in ampullary carcinogenesis.

Background/aims: Aberrations of the pRb (Retinoblastoma gene protein)-p16INK4 pathway play a critical role in carcinogenesis. Our objective is to evaluate its role in tumorigenesis and the development of ampullary cancer.

Methodology: We examined expression status of p16INK4 protein and pRb immunohistochemically and assessed their possible prognostic relevance in 36 ampullary cancers.