Co-expression of Epstein–Barr virus–encoded RNA1 and viral latent membrane protein 1 in osteosarcoma: A novel insight of predictive markers

Abstract

Epstein–Barr virus is an etiologic agent of several malignancies. In this study, we explored the association of Epstein–Barr virus–encoded RNA1 and Epstein–Barr virus latent membrane protein 1 co-expression with osteosarcoma. Epstein–Barr virus–encoded RNA1 expression in tumor cells was quantified using reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction and in situ hybridization and Epstein–Barr virus latent membrane protein 1 expression was measured using immunohistochemistry staining. There was a statistically significant association between Epstein–Barr virus latent membrane protein 1 and Epstein–Barr virus–encoded RNA1 co-expression and characteristics of osteosarcoma such as nodal stage (p < 0.04), metastasis (p < 0.04), Ki67 index (p < 0.03), and tumor stage (p < 0.05). Co-expression of Epstein–Barr virus–encoded RNA1 and Epstein–Barr virus latent membrane protein 1 in tumors correlated with advanced osteosarcoma and indicated the aggressiveness of bone sarcoma.