In situ hybridization detection of homeobox genes reveals distinct expression patterns in oral squamous cell carcinomas

Histopathology. 2011 Jan;58(2):225-33. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2559.2011.03751.x.

Abstract

Aims: To analyse the expression of three homeobox genes (HOXA7, PITX1 and PRRX1) in oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCC) and the relationship of such expression to certain distinct histopathological features of OSCC and in comparison to adjacent non-neoplastic epithelium (NT).

Methods and results: Digoxigenin-labelled riboprobes that are specific for each homeobox gene were generated and in situ hybridization was carried out on frozen sections. In NT samples, HOXA7 and PITX1 transcripts were found more frequently in all epithelial layers, while PRRX1 was expressed in the basal layer. With OSCC samples, expression of the three genes was associated with all histological features. However, the HOXA7 and PITX1 signals were more intense in sheets and nests and PRRX1 in small nests and isolated cells.

Conclusion: HOXA7, PIXT1 and PRRX1 homeobox genes have different patterns of expression in OSCC depending on its histological features.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / genetics*
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / pathology
  • Gene Expression
  • Gene Expression Profiling
  • Homeodomain Proteins / genetics*
  • Humans
  • In Situ Hybridization
  • Mouth Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Mouth Neoplasms / pathology
  • Paired Box Transcription Factors / genetics*
  • Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction

Substances

  • HOXA7 protein, human
  • Homeodomain Proteins
  • PRRX1 protein, human
  • Paired Box Transcription Factors
  • homeobox protein PITX1