SLC5A12 is a prognostic marker in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

Abstract

Background: Solute carrier family 5 (sodium/monocarboxylate cotransporter) member 12 (SLC5A12) is a low-affinity sodium-coupled lactate transporter. Tumor cells are known to selectively upregulate nutrient transporters such as lactate transporters to support their rapid growth. The goal of this study was to measure SLC5A12 levels in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and explores the association of SLC5A12 expression and prognosis in HNSCC. Methods: We determined the expression levels of SCL5A12 mRNA in HNSCC tissues and adjacent normal tissues by quantitative reverse transcription PCR and SLC5A12 protein expression by western blot and tissue microarray immunohistochemistry. SLC5A12 expression was analyzed using UALCAN online resources. Results: SCL5A12 mRNA and protein levels were significantly higher in HNSCC tissues than in adjacent normal tissues. High SCL5A12 protein levels were also associated with lymph node metastasis and higher clinical staging. Conclusions: We conclude that SCL5A12 is a potential indicator for HNSCC development and progression, and that detection of its expression could be a useful independent marker of HNSCC prognosis in the Chinese population.