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MicroRNAs expression pattern related to mast cell activation and angiogenesis in paraffin-embedded salivary gland
Poliana Ramos Braga Santos1, Claúdia Malheiros Coutinho-Camillo2, Fernando Augusto Soares2
1Postgraduate Program in Dentistry and Health, School of Dentistry, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil.
Abstract:
The aim of this study was evaluate the expression profile of microRNAs related to mast cells activation and angiogenesis in salivary glands tumors.
Method:
We have analyzed the expression of miR-9, miR-16, miR-17, miR-132, miR-195 and miR-221 by real-time RT-PCR, in 11 adenoid cystic carcinomas, 9 mucoepidermoid carcinomas and 11 pleomorphic adenomas. Immunohistochemical investigation was performed to detect mast cells tryptase and CD-34 for microvessels biomarkers. miR-16, miR-17, miR-132, miR-195 and miR-221 showed a decreased expression, whereas miR-9 showed an increased expression in most cases compared to normal tissues. However, in all tumors studied only miR-9 showed a statistical significant negative correlation with microvessel density (p=0.001). It was observed a higher density of mast cells in mucoepidermoid carcinomas (10.55 cells/mm2) when compared to adenoid cystic carcinomas (6.27 cells/mm2) and between mucoepidermoid carcinomas and pleomorphic adenomas (5.97células/mm2). miR-17, miR-132, miR-195 and miR-221 seem to play an important role as tumor suppressor in salivary gland tumors. In addition, the significant correlation between mast cell and microvessel density contributes to the growth and pathogenesis of these tumors and they may become strong therapeutic targets in the future.
Insights
MicroRNA-9 (miR-9) expression correlates with reduced microvessel density in salivary gland tumors. Mast cell density is also linked to tumor growth, suggesting potential therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Pathology
Background:
- Salivary gland tumors exhibit complex pathogenesis involving cellular interactions and microenvironmental factors.
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators of gene expression implicated in various cancers, including salivary gland neoplasms.
- Mast cells and angiogenesis (microvessel formation) are critical components of the tumor microenvironment influencing tumor progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the expression profiles of specific microRNAs (miR-9, miR-16, miR-17, miR-132, miR-195, miR-221) in salivary gland tumors.
- To evaluate the relationship between these microRNAs, mast cell activation, and angiogenesis markers (CD-34) in tumor tissues.
- To explore the potential role of these miRNAs and cellular components in the pathogenesis of salivary gland tumors.
Main Methods:
- Real-time RT-PCR was employed to quantify miRNA expression in 11 adenoid cystic carcinomas, 9 mucoepidermoid carcinomas, and 11 pleomorphic adenomas.
- Immunohistochemistry was used to detect mast cell tryptase and CD-34 (a marker for microvessels).
- Statistical analysis was performed to correlate miRNA expression with mast cell density and microvessel density.
Main Results:
- A decrease in miR-16, miR-17, miR-132, miR-195, and miR-221 expression was observed in most tumors compared to normal tissues.
- Conversely, miR-9 showed increased expression in the majority of cases.
- A statistically significant negative correlation was found between miR-9 expression and microvessel density (p=0.001).
- Mucoepidermoid carcinomas exhibited higher mast cell density compared to adenoid cystic carcinomas and pleomorphic adenomas.
- miR-17, miR-132, miR-195, and miR-221 may function as tumor suppressors in salivary gland tumors.
Conclusions:
- The findings suggest that miR-9 plays a role in regulating angiogenesis within salivary gland tumors.
- The significant correlation between mast cell density and microvessel density highlights their contribution to tumor growth and pathogenesis.
- These cellular components and their regulatory miRNAs represent promising future therapeutic targets for salivary gland tumors.
