Influence of IL-38 as a novel biomarker on the pathophysiological processes of esophageal cancer
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 15, 2026

An Immunofluorescent Method for Characterization of Barrett’s Esophagus Cells
Published on: July 20, 2014
Dehua Zeng1, Shixin Ye2, Wenmin Yin3
1Pathology Department of the 900th Hospital of the joint logistics support force of the Chinese people's Liberation Army, Fuzhou, Fujian, China.
Objective:
This study aimed to identify biomarkers of esophageal cancer and elucidate their mechanisms of action in esophageal cancer.
Methods:
Differential protein expression between esophageal tumor tissue and adjacent normal tissue was analyzed using proteomics in a mouse model of esophageal cancer. Differential proteins were identified through bioinformatics analysis. The mechanisms of action of differential proteins in esophageal cancer were validated using techniques such as western blotting and immunohistochemistry.
Results:
Proteomic analysis revealed that IL-38 exhibited the greatest differential expression. Molecular biology techniques including western blotting and immunohistochemistry demonstrated that IL-38 modulates Regulatory T cell (Treg)/ T helper 17 cell (Th17) balance through the Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1)/ hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF-1α) signaling pathway in esophageal cancer.
Conclusion:
IL-38 is a novel biomarker for esophageal cancer and regulates Treg/Th17 balance through the Sirt1/HIF-1α signaling pathway, providing new insights for the treatment of esophageal cancer.
Related Concept Videos
Barrett Esophagus-I: Introduction
This constant acid exposure transforms the esophagus's pink mucosal lining (stratified squamous epithelium) into a type of lining more similar...
Barrett Esophagus-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
To diagnose Barrett's esophagus, healthcare providers often recommend an endoscopy for those showing symptoms of acid reflux. The procedure entails...
Esophageal Achalasia

