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Epigenetic alterations in metastatic cutaneous carcinoma
Owen A Darr1, Justin A Colacino2, Alice L Tang3
1Department of Otolaryngology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Head & Neck
|April 5, 2014
Summary
Distinct epigenetic profiles distinguish metastatic from non-metastatic squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC). This finding may aid in diagnosing and preventing advanced nonmelanoma skin cancers.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Epigenetics
Background:
- Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC) are the most common skin cancers.
- Predictive molecular profiles for metastasis in these cancers are currently unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify distinct epigenetic profiles associated with metastatic potential in cutaneous SCC and BCC.
- To explore the utility of epigenetic profiling in the diagnosis and prevention of advanced nonmelanoma skin cancers.
Main Methods:
- Quantified epigenetic profiles of 37 primary cutaneous SCC and BCC cases using the Illumina Goldengate Cancer Panel.
- Analyzed differential protein expression in 110 cases via immunohistochemical (IHC) staining to assess metastatic potential.
Main Results:
- Metastatic BCCs exhibited a methylation profile similar to cutaneous SCCs.
- Metastatic SCCs showed hypermethylation at FRZB (p = 4 × 10(-5)), while metastatic BCCs showed hypomethylation at MYCL2 (p = 1.9 × 10(-6)).
- Immunohistochemical staining revealed minimal protein expression differences between metastatic and non-metastatic tumors.
Conclusions:
- Distinct epigenetic profiles differentiate metastatic from non-metastatic primary BCCs and SCCs.
- Epigenetic profiling shows promise for the future diagnosis and prevention of advanced nonmelanoma skin cancers.
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