Wnt7b Participates In The Malignant Transformation Of Oral Leukoplakia

This study aimed to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the malignant transformation of oral leukoplakia (OLK) to oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) .And to found the possible molecular markers for the malignant of OLK. Tissue samples were collected from 4 histologically confirmed OLK patients and 4 OSCC patients, with normal oral mucosal tissues obtained from impacted tooth extraction serving as controls. RNA sequencing analysis combined with quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) validation identified possible upregulated genes during OLK carcinogenesis.The model of OLK/OSCC in mice was constructed by 4-Nitroquinoline N-oxide, and the diagnosis was confirmed by gross observation and H&E staining. Immunohistochemical staining was employed to confirm the alterations in the expression levels of genes across the progression from normal tissue to OLK and further to OSCC. Sequencing results and qRT-PCR revealed that Wnt7b expression is upregulated in the malignant transformation of oral leukoplakia. The mouse model of OLK immunohistochemistry results showed that the expression level of Wnt7b increased from normal tissue →OLK → OSCC, with statistical significance. Our findings from both clinical specimens and experimental models consistently demonstrate that elevated Wnt7b expression is significantly associated with the malignant progression of OLK. Wnt7b may be used as biomarkers for the development of OLK into OSCC.