Expression analysis of DUSP6, DAB2IP, and RKIP genes in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

Abstract

BackgroundHead and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is recognized as one of the most common malignancies worldwide, representing high mortality and morbidity. Here, we attempted to study the expression levels of DUSP6, DAB2IP, and RKIP genes, as the critical hallmarks involved in various central mechanisms including Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) pathway, in patients with HNSCC. MethodsThe mRNA expression levels of mentioned genes were evaluated in 45 HNSCC tissues and normal adjacent samples by quantitative Real-time PCR. Samples were obtained from AmirAlam Hospital Complex in Tehran, Iran. We, also, examined the correlation coefficient and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for our data. ResultsThe expression levels of DUSP6 and DAB2IP genes were significantly up-regulated and decreased, respectively, in HNSCC samples, compared with control (p < .05). However, RKIP expression levels did not differ between these two groups. Moreover, statistically significant correlations were observed between expression levels of these three genes, as well as considerable correlations between their expression and clinicopathological features including sex, age, smoking history, histological grade, and pathologic stage for DUSP6 and DAB2IP. Finally, ROC curve analysis depicted DAB2IP and DUSP6 genes as good predictive biomarkers with highest specificity. DiscussionGiven the dysregulated mRNA expression levels of DUSP6 and DAB2IP genes, along with exhibited correlations and ROC curve analysis, the pivotal importance of studied genes and their network can be suggested in patients with HNSCC. Recognizing such molecular dysregulations in central cellular pathways can pave the road to potential therapeutic interventions and to improve medical diagnosis.