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Rapid In Situ Hybridization using Oligonucleotide Probes on Paraformaldehyde-prefixed Brain of Rats with Serotonin Syndrome
Published on: September 23, 2015
Serotonin transporter mRNA expression in the dorsal raphe nucleus of a tumor bearing mouse
Jeong Won Jahng1, Si Ho Choi, Mi Joo Cha
1Department of Pharmacology, BK21 Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 120-752, Korea.
Abstract:
This study was conducted to determine if an oral squamous cell carcinoma alters mRNA expression of serotonin transporter (5-HTT) in the central nervous system. KB cell line derived from a human oral squamous cell carcinoma was inoculated into nude mice, and mRNA expression level of 5-HTT in the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) was examined by in situ hybridization when the tumor mass reached to -10% of total body weight. Plasma leptin levels were determined by radioimmunoassay method using a commercial kit. 5-HTT mRNA level was significantly decreased in the DRN of tumor bearing mice, compared to the age-matching non-tumor control. Plasma leptin level decreased concomitantly in tumor bearing mice. These results suggest that oral carcinoma may suppress 5-HTT gene expression in the central nervous system, perhaps in relation with decreased plasma leptin level.
Insights
Oral squamous cell carcinoma significantly decreases serotonin transporter (5-HTT) mRNA in the brain. This may be linked to lower plasma leptin levels in tumor-bearing mice.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a prevalent cancer.
- Serotonin transporter (5-HTT) plays a crucial role in neurotransmission.
- The central nervous system's response to OSCC is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of OSCC on central nervous system 5-HTT mRNA expression.
- To explore the potential correlation between OSCC, 5-HTT levels, and plasma leptin.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a nude mouse model inoculated with human OSCC (KB cell line).
- Quantified 5-HTT mRNA expression in the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) via in situ hybridization.
- Measured plasma leptin levels using radioimmunoassay.
Main Results:
- A significant decrease in 5-HTT mRNA levels was observed in the DRN of tumor-bearing mice compared to controls.
- Plasma leptin levels were concomitantly reduced in mice with oral tumors.
- These findings indicate a potential link between OSCC and altered central 5-HTT expression.
Conclusions:
- Oral squamous cell carcinoma may suppress 5-HTT gene expression in the central nervous system.
- This suppression might be associated with decreased plasma leptin levels.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise mechanisms involved.
