Hedgehog and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Pathways in Gastric Cancer
Author Information
Author(s): Ohta H, Aoyagi K, Fukaya M, Danjoh I, Ohta A, Isohata N, Saeki N, Taniguchi H, Sakamoto H, Shimoda T, Tani T, Yoshida T, Sasaki H
Primary Institution: National Cancer Center Research Institute
Hypothesis
How do hedgehog and epithelial–mesenchymal transition pathways cooperate in diffuse-type gastric cancer?
Conclusion
The study suggests that the gastric pit cell exhibits mesenchymal-like gene expression, and that diffuse-type gastric cancer maintains this expression through the hedgehog–epithelial-mesenchymal transition pathway.
Supporting Evidence
- Both hedgehog and EMT-related genes were found to be co-expressed in gastric pit cells and diffuse-type gastric cancers.
- Treatment with an Hh-signal inhibitor reduced the expression of several key genes involved in cancer growth.
- Two cancer-specific Hh targets, ELK1 and MSX2, were identified as essential for gastric cancer cell growth.
Takeaway
This study found that certain signals in stomach cells can help cancer grow, and understanding these signals might help create new treatments.
Methodology
The study used microarray analysis and reverse transcription–PCR to investigate gene expression in gastric pit cells and diffuse-type gastric cancers.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in sample selection and analysis methods could affect the results.
Limitations
The study primarily focuses on specific pathways and may not encompass all factors involved in gastric cancer.
Participant Demographics
Patients with gastric cancer and non-cancerous tissues from the National Cancer Center Hospital.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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