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Decrease of autophagy activity promotes malignant progression of tongue squamous cell carcinoma

Yawen Wang1, Cheng Wang, Haikuo Tang

  • 1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Guanghua School and Research Institute of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.

Journal of Oral Pathology & Medicine : Official Publication of the International Association of Oral Pathologists and the American Academy of Oral Pathology
|March 8, 2013
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Autophagy, crucial for cell health, is often down-regulated in tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC). Modulating autophagy impacts TSCC progression, suggesting its therapeutic potential.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Cell Biology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Autophagy is a cellular degradation process vital for maintaining homeostasis.
  • Emerging evidence highlights autophagy's role in cancer development.
  • The specific function of autophagy in tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC) remains underexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the expression of autophagy-related proteins, Beclin1 and LC3, in TSCC.
  • To determine the correlation between autophagy protein expression and clinicopathological features of TSCC.
  • To elucidate the functional impact of autophagy modulation on TSCC cell behavior.

Main Methods:

  • Immunohistochemistry was used to assess Beclin1 and LC3 expression in 50 TSCC samples.
  • In vitro studies involved treating TSCC cells with autophagy modulators (rapamycin and 3-MA).
  • Techniques including qPCR, Western blot, immunofluorescence, transmission electron microscopy, MTT assay, flow cytometry, wound healing, and transwell assays were employed.

Main Results:

  • Down-regulation of Beclin1 and LC3 was frequently observed in TSCC.
  • Decreased Beclin1 expression correlated with advanced T stage, clinical stage, and poor differentiation.
  • Rapamycin-induced autophagy suppressed TSCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, while 3-MA-induced autophagy inhibition promoted these processes.

Conclusions:

  • Autophagy plays a significant role in the progression of tongue squamous cell carcinoma.
  • Beclin1 and LC3 expression levels are potential biomarkers for TSCC.
  • Targeting autophagy presents a promising therapeutic strategy for TSCC.
Keywords:
Beclin1LC3autophagytongue squamous cell carcinoma

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