E-cadherin in Age-Related Mammary Gland Changes in Women: Aperio Image Analysis

Huda Hussein Eid; Elham Majeed Mahmood; Areej Saadi Hasan; Samira Abdul-Hussein Abdullah

doi:10.54133/ajms.v8i1.1679

Authors

Huda Hussein Eid Department of Human Anatomy, College of Medicine, Tikrit University, Tikrit, Iraq https://orcid.org/0009-0008-5977-7769
Elham Majeed Mahmood Department of Human Anatomy, College of Medicine, Tikrit University, Tikrit, Iraq
Areej Saadi Hasan Baghdad Health Directorate, Iraqi Ministry of Health, Baghdad, Iraq
Samira Abdul-Hussein Abdullah Department of Human Anatomy, College of Medicine, Tikrit University, Tikrit, Iraq

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54133/ajms.v8i1.1679

Keywords:

Alveoli, Aperio algorithm program, E-cadherin, Mammary glands

Abstract

Background: E-cadherin is a transmembrane protein that is essential for cell-cell adhesion and is primarily expressed in mammary glands and epithelial cells, particularly at intercellular junctions of ducts and lobules. It helps maintain structural integrity and prevents pathological conditions such as unregulated cell growth. Immunohistochemical analysis shows strong labeling at intercellular borders, emphasizing its role in preserving epithelial structure. Objective: To analyze age-related changes in E-cadherin expression at epithelial cell junctions using histochemical and immunohistochemical techniques. Methods: This study, conducted from April to September 2024, analyzed 60 mammary gland samples from forensic medicine cadavers. Samples from female mammary glands were categorized into three groups: group 1 (ages 15–25), group 2 (ages 26–45), and group 3 (ages 46 and older). E-cadherin was used to analyze epithelial cell interactions. Samples were processed histologically and immunohistochemically, and interactions were evaluated using the Aperio Algorithm program. Results: E-cadherin was consistently expressed on the epithelial cell surface, facilitating adhesion through tight junctions. Expression levels were higher in group 2 but decreased in group 3 compared to group 1. Statistical analysis confirmed a significant difference. Conclusions: E-cadherin plays a crucial role in signaling, proliferation, differentiation, regeneration, and maintenance of epithelial balance. Age-related changes in expression may contribute to altered epithelial integrity, especially in older individuals.

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