PDCD4 as tumor suppressor protein in gastric mucosa in early, advanced precancerous lesions and gastric adenocarcinoma

The PDCD4 (programmed cell death protein 4) protein is a key target protein, in particular for the well-studied miR-21. By suppressing its synthesis, miR-21 exerts its influence on key cellular biological processes. Furthermore, miR-21 itself is one of the most relevant predictor markers for assessing the risk of developing gastric cancer. OBJECTIVE: Evaluation of PDCD4 expression as a potential marker for gastric cancer prediction and in the differential diagnosis of gastric mucosal dysplasia. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Comparative immunohistochemical analysis of PDCD4 protein was performed in biopsy specimens of the antral gastric mucosa with signs of chronic gastritis and gastric mucosal dysplasia, as well as in surgical specimens from stomachs resected for adenocarcinoma. RESULTS: =0.43). A simple logistic regression model demonstrated a significant negative association between PDCD4 protein expression and dysplasia in the gastric mucosa (OR=0.27, CI=[0.16-0.46]). CONCLUSION: Low PDCD4 protein expression in dysplasia in the gastric mucosa and high levels regardless of the presence and severity of atrophy and inflammation may indicate its high potential for use in the differential diagnosis of indefinite for dysplasia and true dysplasia of the gastric mucosa.