Impact of Pim1 mutations on the survival outcomes of patients with breast cancer: Insights from a clinical study

Abstract

AimBreast cancer ranks as the most prevalent cancer in women, with an estimated 508,000 deaths globally. Pim1, a proto-oncogene, has been implicated in the initiation and progression of malignant phenotypes. While the mutational status of Pim1 has been extensively studied in various cancers, its significance in breast cancer remains uncertain. This study aimed to identify novel mutations and potential hotspots within the coding region of Pim1 in breast cancer, and to assess their impact on protein expression and patients' progression-free and overall survival. MethodsNinety-six Indian subjects diagnosed with breast cancer and undergoing surgery at our hospital were included in the study. Genomic DNA was amplified and sequenced to detect mutations in the coding region of Pim1. Protein expression of Pim1 was assessed using FFPE sections. ResultsMutations were found across exons 2 to 5, with exon 4 showing the highest mutation frequency. About 32% of the study population carried mutations, with many exhibiting double mutations. Aberrant Pim1 expression, characterized by nuclear membrane and cytoplasmic staining, was observed in 49% of the study cohort. Survival analysis revealed that patients with mutant Pim1 and negative protein expression had significantly improved survival outcomes compared to those with the wild-type gene and positive protein expression. ConclusionOur findings suggest that Pim1 mutation and negative Pim1 expression serve as independent prognostic factors for enhanced survival outcomes in breast cancer patients.