The intra-nucleus integration of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in cervical mucosa cells and its relation with c-myc expression
2008

Mitochondrial DNA Integration in Cervical Cells and c-myc Expression

Sample size: 100 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Chen Daozhen, Xue Wenqun, Xiang Jinying

Primary Institution: Center Laboratory, Wuxi Hospital for Maternal and Child Health Care, Affiliated Medical University of Nanjing, Wuxi, PR China

Hypothesis

The study explores the relationship between the integration of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in the nuclei of cervical epithelium cells and the expression of c-myc.

Conclusion

The integration of mtDNA into the nuclei of cervical epithelium cells may be involved in the carcinogenesis of cervical epithelium cells and the expression of c-myc might be related to this integration.

Supporting Evidence

  • The detection rates of mtDNA in cervical carcinoma, CIN, and normal cervical epithelium were 27.5%, 13.3%, and 0%, respectively.
  • The expression rate of c-myc in cervical mucosa cells was 67% in the mtDNA positive group compared to 36% in the negative group.
  • Statistical analysis showed significant differences in mtDNA integration and c-myc expression rates among the groups.

Takeaway

This study found that when mitochondrial DNA gets into the nucleus of cervical cells, it might help cause cancer and is linked to a gene called c-myc that can make cells grow uncontrollably.

Methodology

The study involved immunohistochemical tests and in situ hybridization techniques on biopsy samples from patients with cervical cancer, cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), and normal cervical epithelium.

Participant Demographics

Patients aged 36 to 71 years, median age 59.5 years, including 40 cases of cervical cancer, 30 cases of CIN, and 30 cases of normal cervical epithelium.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1756-9966-27-36

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication