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Interleukin 16 expression changes in association with ovarian malignant transformation
Aparna Yellapa1, Pincas Bitterman2, Sameer Sharma3
1Department of Pharmacology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL.
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
|January 2, 2014
Summary
Interleukin-16 (IL-16) levels increase with ovarian cancer development and progression. This proinflammatory cytokine may serve as an early biomarker for ovarian malignancy, even before tumors are detectable.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Chronic inflammation is a known risk factor for various cancers.
- Interleukin-16 (IL-16) is a proinflammatory cytokine implicated in immune responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between Interleukin-16 (IL-16) expression and the development and progression of ovarian cancer (OVCA).
Main Methods:
- Exploratory study using ovarian tissues and serum from healthy individuals and patients with benign or malignant ovarian tumors.
- Prospective study in a preclinical model (laying hens) of spontaneous OVCA, monitoring IL-16 serum levels over time.
Main Results:
- Significantly increased IL-16 expression in OVCA tissues compared to healthy controls and benign tumors.
- Elevated serum IL-16 concentrations in patients with benign and malignant ovarian tumors, correlating positively with tumor stage and microvessel density.
- Serum IL-16 levels increased in hens prior to gross tumor detection, suggesting early biomarker potential.
Conclusions:
- Tissue expression and serum levels of IL-16 are elevated in association with ovarian cancer development and progression.
- IL-16 may serve as a potential biomarker for early detection and monitoring of ovarian cancer.
