Tissue mechanics modulate PCNP expression in oral squamous cell carcinomas with different differentiation

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Biophysics
• Cell Biology

Background:

• PEST-containing nuclear protein (PCNP) is a zinc finger protein involved in cell cycle regulation.
• PCNP influences cellular development and invasion in various cancers.
• The role of PCNP in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) development and progression requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between PCNP expression and OSCC differentiation.
• To analyze the histomorphological and mechanical properties of OSCC using biological atomic force microscopy.
• To explore PCNP's potential as a biomarker for OSCC diagnosis and staging.

Main Methods:

• Seventy-seven OSCC samples with varying differentiation were analyzed using hematoxylin and eosin staining and immunohistochemistry.
• Cellular mechanical properties (stiffness, roughness) were measured using biological atomic force microscopy.
• Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed to correlate PCNP expression with patient survival.

Main Results:

• PCNP levels were significantly higher in well-differentiated OSCC compared to moderately and poorly differentiated types.
• High PCNP expression correlated with better tumor differentiation, absence of lymph node metastasis, and lower tumor stage.
• A positive correlation was found between PCNP expression and tissue stiffness (R = 0.86, P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

• PCNP expression is positively associated with OSCC differentiation, reduced metastasis, and improved patient survival.
• PCNP serves as a potential biomarker for early diagnosis and staging of OSCC.
• Tissue mechanical properties, alongside PCNP expression, offer valuable insights for OSCC detection and differentiation.