CDX2 is a homeobox gene encoding transcriptional factors for intestinal organogenesis and represents a specific marker of colorectal adenocarcinoma (CRC) differentiation.
CDX2 is a sensitive marker compared to SATB2; while the specificity of combination of CDX2 and SATB2 is high for metastasis from colorectal adenocarcinoma.
To clarify the possible involvement of the HIF-1alpha subunit and homeodomain protein CDX2 in the development and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC), we examined in vivo the immunohistochemical expression of HIF-1alpha and its topological correlation with CDX2 expression in colorectal adenocarcinoma.
The histologic resemblance between SIA and colorectal adenocarcinoma is reinforced by the expression of CDX2 and CK20, which are virtually constant in both neoplasms.