Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 21, 2026

07:52
In Vivo CRISPR/Cas9 Screening to Simultaneously Evaluate Gene Function in Mouse Skin and Oral Cavity
Published on: November 2, 2020
Reference gene selection for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma gene expression studies
Benjamin Lallemant1, Alexandre Evrard, Christophe Combescure
1Service d'ORL et Chirurgie Maxillo-faciale, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nîmes, Place du Pr, Robert Debré, 30029 Nîmes Cedex 9, France. benjamin.lallemant@chu-nimes.fr
BMC Molecular Biology
|August 5, 2009
Summary
Selecting appropriate reference genes is crucial for accurate gene expression analysis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). This study identifies the best normalization genes for HNSCC research, ensuring reliable quantitative expression data.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
- Genomics
Background:
- Choosing reference genes for quantitative expression analysis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) requires careful validation.
- This study evaluates 12 commonly used reference genes for their suitability in HNSCC research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define the suitability of 12 reference genes for normalizing quantitative expression data in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).
- To guide researchers in selecting the most appropriate reference genes based on experimental context.
Main Methods:
- Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was used to measure gene expression levels.
- Expression stability was analyzed using geNorm and NormFinder algorithms.
- Gene expression levels were compared between HNSCC and normal matched mucosa samples from 46 patients.
Main Results:
- ALAS, GAPDH, RPS18, and SHAD were identified as the four best normalization genes in HNSCC and/or normal mucosa.
- The most stable combination of two genes for normalization was GAPDH-SHAD.
- Specific gene pair recommendations were provided for different tumor stages (T1T2, T3T4) and nodal involvement (N0, N+).
Conclusions:
- This study provides essential guidance for selecting optimal reference genes in HNSCC research.
- The findings ensure more accurate and reliable normalization of quantitative gene expression data in head and neck cancer studies.

