In particular, we have demonstrated that there is a strong correlation between positive nuclear and cytoplasmic staining for P-ERK and more aggressive tumours (i.e. advanced stage tumours (III and IV), tumours with hilar or mediastinal lymph node metastases, and tumours with higher T stage), and also between cytoplasmic staining and the grade of differentiation. This evidence concerns the gene MAPK1 and neoplasm.