Expression of Connexin 32 and Connexin 43 gap junction proteins in basal and squamous cell carcinomas

Abstract

Gap junctions play a role in intercellular communication in the epithelium, muscle and nerve tissues, and many more tissues and organs. These linking regions and the proteins forming them are called connexins (Cx). Recent studies show that cellular homeostatic equilibrium can be influenced by connexins. In this study, the expression of Cx43 and Cx32 in basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) is tried studied. A total of 45 cases, 23 male and 22 female, were included in the study. Twenty of the cases were SCC and twenty-five were BCC. Retrospective data from records were examined and specimens were investigated by immunohistochemistry staining. It was determined that the results of Cx 43 and Cx 32 staining changed according to the tumor type of cases (P = 0,020). It was determined that the results of Cx43 and Cx32 staining did not change according to the sex and age, BCC and SCC subtype, and location. Losses of Cx43 and Cx32 have been shown to be associated with tumor types. We believe that it can be used as a support marker of SCC and BCC differential diagnosis. [Med-Science 2023; 12(1.000): 192-6]

Keywords

• basal cell carcinoma
• squamous cell carcinoma
• connexin 32
• connexin 43