INI-1 (MRQ-27)

The INI-1 gene, which encodes a functionally uncharacterized protein component of the hSWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex, is often mutated or deleted in malignant rhabdoid tumor (MRT). Two isoforms of INI-1 that differ by the variable inclusion of amino acids are potentially produced by differential RNA splicing.

The morphology of MRTs can present challenges in differential diagnosis. The overall survival of MRTs relative to its potential mimics [medulloblastoma, supratentorial primitive neuroectodermal tumors (sPNETs)] is quite low, and thus differentiation from these other tumors is desirable. Lack of nuclear labeling by anti-INI-1 is characteristic of MRT. The majority of medulloblastomas and sPNETs are labeled by anti-INI-1. MRTs also originate from the kidney and soft tissues.1-3