Plasma midkine level is a prognostic factor for human neuroblastoma

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Oncology
• Molecular Diagnostics
• Cancer Biomarkers

Background:

• Neuroblastoma is a prevalent childhood solid tumor lacking established blood markers.
• Midkine, a growth factor, shows high expression in carcinomas and suppresses tumor growth upon knockdown.
• Previous research indicates midkine's role in various cancers, prompting investigation in neuroblastoma.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate plasma midkine levels as a potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for neuroblastoma.
• To assess the correlation between plasma midkine levels and established neuroblastoma prognostic factors.

Main Methods:

• Plasma samples were collected from 756 individuals, including neuroblastoma patients (mass screening and sporadic) and non-tumor controls.
• Plasma midkine levels were measured and compared between patient groups and controls.
• Statistical analysis was performed to correlate midkine levels with MYCN amplification, TRKA expression, ploidy, stage, age, and prognosis.

Main Results:

• Plasma midkine levels were significantly higher in neuroblastoma patients compared to controls (P < 0.0001).
• Midkine levels showed significant correlations with MYCN amplification, TRKA expression, ploidy, stage, and age (all P < 0.0001).
• Elevated plasma midkine levels strongly correlated with poor prognosis in both mass-screening and sporadic neuroblastoma cases (P < 0.0001 and P = 0.04, respectively).

Conclusions:

• Plasma midkine is a promising biomarker for neuroblastoma, showing significantly elevated levels in patients.
• Midkine levels correlate with key prognostic factors, including MYCN amplification and tumor stage.
• High plasma midkine levels are indicative of poor prognosis in neuroblastoma patients.