Reduced expression of N-Myc downstream-regulated gene 2 in human thyroid cancer
2008

NDRG2 and Thyroid Cancer

Sample size: 75 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Zhao Huadong, Zhang Jian, Lu Jianguo, He Xianli, Chen Changsheng, Li Xiaojun, Gong Li, Bao Guoqiang, Fu Qiang, Chen Suning, Lin Wei, Shi Hai, Ma Jianjun, Liu Xinping, Ma Qingjiu, Yao Libo

Primary Institution: The Fourth Military Medical University

Hypothesis

Does NDRG2 participate in the carcinogenesis of thyroid cancer?

Conclusion

NDRG2 expression is significantly decreased in thyroid cancers, suggesting its role in thyroid carcinogenesis.

Supporting Evidence

  • NDRG2 mRNA was significantly decreased in thyroid carcinoma tissues compared to adjacent normal tissues.
  • Immunostaining analysis revealed a decrease of Ndrg2 expression in thyroid carcinomas.
  • Positive amplification of c-Myc was detected in thyroid cancers, while little was seen in adenomas.

Takeaway

This study found that a gene called NDRG2 is less active in thyroid cancer compared to normal thyroid tissue, which might help us understand how thyroid cancer develops.

Methodology

The study used immunohistochemistry, quantitative RT-PCR, and western blot methods to analyze NDRG2 expression in thyroid tissues.

Limitations

The study did not find significant correlations of NDRG2 expression with gender, age, different histotypes of thyroid cancers, or distant metastases.

Participant Demographics

The study included 40 individuals with thyroid adenomas and 35 with thyroid carcinomas, with no significant differences in NDRG2 expression based on gender or age.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.048

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2407-8-303

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