Abstract

Expression profile of tumor suppressor gene RASSF1 in lacrimal gland carcinoma

We examined the expression pattern of the tumor suppressor gene RAS association domain family gene 1 (RASSF1) in lacrimal gland carcinoma and analyzed its relationship with the oncogenesis and progression of tumors. Sixty-two patients (30 males, 32 females, average age = 47 ± 3.5 years) admitted with lacrimal gland carcinoma to the Department of Ophthalmology of our hospital between January 2012 and January 2014 were enrolled in this study. Based on tumor malignancy, patients were classified into a malignant group (N = 25) and benign group (N = 37). Healthy lacrimal gland resections from trauma surgery (N = 35) were recruited as a healthy control group. Expression profiles of RASSF1 in all groups were quantified using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. Recurrence of lacrimal gland carcinoma was surveyed through postoperative follow-up. Expression levels of RASSF1 in samples from the malignant and benign groups were significantly lower than those in the healthy group (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the malignant group showed lower RASSF1 expression than the benign group (P < 0.05). Postoperative follow-up identified 22 cases of recurrence in the malignant group, with a recurrence rate of 88%, while 15 cases in the benign group had a recurrence rate of 40.5%. A direct relationship exists between RASSF1 expression levels and the malignancy grade of lacrimal gland carcinoma. Patients with lower RASSF1 expression showed a higher recurrence probability, indicating unfavorable prognosis. Therefore, measuring RASSF1 expression can be used as a diagnostic method for lacrimal gland carcinoma.

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