Comparative Immunohistochemical Analysis of FAP and c-MET Expression Across Renal Cell Carcinoma Subtypes: Preliminary Results and Potential Theranostic Implications

Background

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) comprises multiple histopathological subtypes with distinct biological characteristics and clinical behavior. Despite advances in conventional imaging, the detection of small RCC lesions or distant metastases remains challenging and the prognosis of advanced RCC is still poor. Theranostic approaches are promising tools combining diagnostic imaging and targeted radionuclide-based cancer therapy. The identification of suitable molecular targets in tumor tissue is a major focus of current research. Fibroblast activation protein (FAP) and hepatocyte growth factor receptor (c-MET) have been proposed as theranostic targets in several solid cancers, including RCC. However, available data are limited and inconsistent, particularly regarding expression patterns across different RCC subtypes.