Prognostic and Clinicopathological Implications of NUSAP1, MELK and L1CAM Immunohistochemical Expression in Cervical Cancer

Abstract

Background: Evaluation of cancer cervix prognosis is highly needed for novel targeted therapy and improved outcomes. Nucleolar and spindle associated protein 1 (NUSAP1) is a novel biomarker that has roles in spindle formation and mitotic progression. Maternal embryonic leucine zipper kinase (MELK) is involved in cell cycle control and carcinogenesis. The L1 cell adhesion molecule (L1-CAM) plays an essential role in cell migration. This study aimed to investigate NUSAP1, MELK, and L1CAM immunohistochemical expression in cancer cervix tissues and detect their prognostic roles. Method: In this prospective cohort study, we evaluated NUSAP1, MELK, and L1CAM expressions of sections from 62 cervical carcinoma cases using immunohistochemistry. Results: NUSAP1, MELK, and L1CAM expression correlated with tumor high grade, advanced FIGO stage, poor survival rates, and higher recurrence rate after successful therapy (p <0.001). Conclusion: Expression of NUSAP1, MELK, and L1CAM in cancer cervix was associated with poor prognosis.

Keywords

• cancer cervix
• immunohistochemistry
• prognosis
• nusap1
• melk
• l1cam