Identification of oral cancer cell-induced changes in gene expression profile of lymphatic endothelial cell

Understading functional properties of tumor-derived lymphatic endothelial cells (TLEC) are relevant for blocking lymphatic metastasis. The changes of lymphatic endothelial cells (LEC) cocultured with oral cancer cells in a vitro model were examined. TLEC, in contrast to LEC, were more proliferative and have enhanced ability of lymphangiogenesis and anti-apoptosis. Gene microarrays revealed that 677 unique genes had two-fold or higher change between the two groups. Differential expressions of selected genes were confirmed by real-time PCR. Our results indicate that TLEC display abnormal characteristics and are distinct at the molecular level. Manipulation of TLEC is encouraging for therapy of lymphatic metastasis.