Downregulation of pigment epithelium-derived factor in condyloma acuminatum.

Objectives: To investigate pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) mRNA and protein levels in condyloma acuminatum, and their relationship with angiogenesis and keratinocyte proliferation.

Methods: Lesions from male patients with condyloma acuminatum and skin from healthy male (control) subjects were collected. Levels of PEDF protein and its corresponding mRNA (SERPINF1) were determined via Western blotting and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, respectively. Immunohistochemical staining for Ki-67 and CD34 was performed to calculate keratinocyte proliferation index (PI) and microvessel density (MVD), respectively.

Results: Levels of both PEDF protein and SERPINF1 mRNA were significantly lower in lesions from patients with condyloma acuminatum (n = 30) than in skin from healthy control subjects (n = 30). There were significant negative correlations between PEDF levels and both PI and MVD.

Conclusions: The reduction in PEDF levels in condyloma acuminatum was associated with an increase in angiogenesis and cell proliferation. PEDF may be involved in the pathogenesis of condyloma acuminatum.