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Evaluating MCM3 Expression as a Diagnostic and Prognostic Marker in Oral Epithelial Dysplasia and OSCC: A Systematic
Saloni Verma1, Ayushi Jain2, Arushi Tomar1
1Department of Oral Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Odontology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, 226003 India.
Background:
Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a prevalent malignancy in developing countries, with high morbidity and mortality rates. Proliferative markers play a crucial role in diagnosing and prognosticating OSCC. Among these, Minichromosome Maintenance Protein 3 (MCM3) has shown potential as a reliable marker, outperforming conventional markers like Ki-67 due to its specificity and sensitivity.
Objective:
To evaluate the expression of MCM3 in OSCC and its precursors, compare it with other proliferative markers, and assess its potential as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker.
Methods:
An electronic literature search was conducted across databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Web of Science and Cochrane Library. Studies meeting the inclusion criteria-OSCC cases, MCM3 assessment via IHC, and data on tumor grade and stage were analyzed. Risk of bias was evaluated using the JBI checklist, and quantitative data were synthesized in Microsoft Excel from nine eligible articles.
Results:
Positive nuclear expression of MCM3 was observed in 92.6% of OSCC cases, with higher expression intensity correlating with advanced tumor grade and stage. Compared to Ki-67, MCM3 demonstrated superior sensitivity in OSCC, with less influence from external factors like inflammation. Digital analysis revealed higher labeling indices for MCM3 in OSCC compared to controls, reinforcing its reliability as a proliferative marker.
Conclusions:
MCM3 is a promising biomarker for OSCC diagnosis and prognosis, offering improved sensitivity and specificity over the conventional markers. Large-scale, multi-center studies are needed to validate its clinical applicability and facilitate its integration into personalized treatment strategies.