PMEL 17 is a melanosome specific antigen, also is designed as HMB45 or gp100. It plays a central role in the biogenesis of iki melanosomes, involved in the maturation of melanosomes from stage Ito II. The transition from stage I melanosomes to stage II melanosomes involves an elongation of the vesicle, and the appearance within of distinct fibrillar structures. PMEL 17 is presented in immature and activated melanocytes (due to, e.g., inflammation, increased vascularity or underlying t mor), but not in mature, resting melanocytes. In tumor tissues, it is restricted expressed in melanoma. Studies support the routine use of PMEL 17 (HMB45) as a sensitive and specific melanocytic marker.
PMEL 17 is a melanosome specific antigen, also is designed as HMB45 or gp100. It plays a central role in the biogenesis of iki melanosomes, involved in the maturation of melanosomes from stage Ito II. The transition from stage I melanosomes to stage II melanosomes involves an elongation of the vesicle, and the appearance within of distinct fibrillar structures. PMEL 17 is presented in immature and activated melanocytes (due to, e.g., inflammation, increased vascularity or underlying t mor), but not in mature, resting melanocytes. In tumor tissues, it is restricted expressed in melanoma. Studies support the routine use of PMEL 17 (HMB45) as a sensitive and specific melanocytic marker.