ISSN : 2663-2187

Expression of mucin-1 in oral squamous cell carcinoma and normal oral mucosa: An immunohistochemical study

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Dr. Shazia Aslam, Dr.Punita Biswamitra, Dr. Shahrukh Khan, Dr. Bharti Gupta, Dr. Mondeep Baruah, Dr Nirvi Sharma
» doi: 10.33472/AFJBS.6.9.2024.4359-4363

Abstract

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a prevalent malignancy of the oral cavity, characterized by aggressive behavior and poor prognosis. Mucin-1 (MUC1) is a glycoprotein expressed on the epithelial cell surface, playing a significant role in cell signaling and adhesion. Its altered expression has been implicated in various carcinomas, including OSCC. This study aims to evaluate the expression levels of MUC1 in OSCC compared to normal oral mucosa (NOM) using immunohistochemical techniques. Materials and Methods A total of 60 samples were analyzed, including 30 OSCC tissues and 30 NOM tissues. Immunohistochemical staining was performed using a monoclonal antibody specific to MUC1. The intensity and distribution of MUC1 staining were evaluated using a semi-quantitative scoring system. Statistical analysis was conducted to compare the expression levels between OSCC and NOM samples. Results MUC1 expression was significantly higher in OSCC tissues compared to NOM tissues. In OSCC samples, 85% (n=26) showed strong MUC1 expression, while only 20% (n=6) of NOM samples exhibited similar intensity. The average immunohistochemical score for OSCC tissues was 7.8 (± 2.1), significantly higher than the 3.2 (± 1.5) observed in NOM tissues (p < 0.001). These findings suggest a marked upregulation of MUC1 in OSCC. Conclusion The study demonstrates that MUC1 is significantly overexpressed in OSCC compared to normal oral mucosa, indicating its potential role in the pathogenesis of OSCC. MUC1 may serve as a valuable biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of OSCC and could be a potential target for therapeutic interventions.

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