Specific Estradiol Binding in Schwannomas, Meningiomas, and Neurofibromas

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Abstract
The cytoplasmic fractions of schwannomas (acoustic neuromas), meningiomas, and neurofibromas were assayed for the presence of estrogen receptors. Specific estradiol binding was detected in 7 of 16 schwannomas, 7 of 10 meningiomas, and 1 of 6 neurofibromas. A nontumorous vestibular nerve was also studied and showed no estradiol binding. In the tumors, the concentration of the estradiol binding sites as estimated by saturation binding analysis covered a wide range of values (21 to 2430 fmol/g of tumor) but, overall, meningiomas contained the highest amount of estradiol binder. A Scatchard plot analysis of one of the schwannoma specimens demonstrated high affinity estradiol binding (Ka = 1.695 × 1010M−1). Although there were more females than males in each tumor category, the overall incidence of estradiol binding was similar in males (5 of 11. 45%) and in females (10 of 21, 48%r). In 5 cases, progestin binding was also measured and was delected in two meningiomas (both from female patients): one meningioma and two neurofibromas showed no progestin binding. A discussion is presented of the possible role of estradiol in the pathogenesis or modulation of meningeal and Schwann cell tumors as well as in the genetic disorder neurofibromatosis.

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