Significant overexpression of the Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) large T antigen in Merkel cell carcinoma

Abstract

MCPyV large T protein was significantly overexpressed in 97% of all specimens. Although we could not demonstrate a predictive effect, MCPyV large T protein may represent a molecular marker with utility in pathological diagnosis as well as a potential new therapeutic target in patients with Merkel cell carcinoma.