The Prediction of DLL4 as a Prognostic Biomarker in Patients with Gastric Cancer Using Anti-DLL4 Nanobody

Reza Afzalipour ^1,2, Tannaz Abbasi-Dokht ^3,4, Maryam Sheikh ^3,4

⁰Molecular Medicine Research Center, Hormozgan Health Institute, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran.

Journal of Gastrointestinal Cancer +

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July 24, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

DLL4 expression in gastric cancer predicts poor survival outcomes. A novel Nanobody shows potential for detecting DLL4, aiding in developing new cancer therapies and diagnostics.

Area Of Science

Oncology
Molecular Biology
Biotechnology

Background

The DLL4/Notch signaling pathway is crucial for angiogenesis and cancer metastasis.
Targeting this pathway offers a potential therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment.

Purpose Of The Study

To investigate DLL4 expression as a prognostic biomarker in gastric cancer.
To evaluate the utility of a novel anti-DLL4 Nanobody for detecting DLL4.

Main Methods

DLL4 expression was assessed in 135 gastric cancer patient tissue samples using a novel anti-DLL4 Nanobody.
Correlation of DLL4 expression with clinicopathological factors, overall survival (OS), and recurrence-free survival (RFS) was analyzed.

Main Results

Positive DLL4 expression was observed in 48% of gastric cancer patients.
DLL4 expression was significantly associated with unfavorable OS and RFS in both univariate and multivariate analyses.
DLL4 expression independently predicted poor OS (HR, 2.7) and RFS (HR, 2.3).

Conclusions

DLL4 expression serves as a potential biomarker for predicting poor prognosis and survival in gastric cancer.
The developed Nanobody demonstrates potential for DLL4 detection, paving the way for novel cancer therapies and diagnostics.

Keywords:

Anti-DLL4 Nanobody DLL4 Gastric cancer Immunohistochemistry Prognosis