Expression profile of apoptotic and proliferative markers in oral lesions and its clinicopathological significance

Introduction: Oral cavity is prone to a myriad of changes with advancing age as well as a result of the environmental and life style related factors. Genetic abnormalities are the primary cause of dysplastic, metaplastic, and neoplastic changes resulting in an imbalance between molecular mechanisms which regulate apoptosis and cell proliferation. Evaluating these parameters may not only help in identifying the individuals who are at a greater risk of developing carcinomas, but also carry significant prognostic value.

Aim: The present study was undertaken with the aim of evaluating the expression profile of Bcl2 and Ki-67 as biomarkers in assessing the apoptotic and proliferative activity of Oral lesions and compare the topographical aspect of these lesions.

Material and Methods: A cross sectional study of 31cases of oral lesions, immunohistochemically assessed for Bcl-2 and Ki67 for their expression pattern.

Results: Expression of Ki-67 showed a linear increase from normal oral epithelium through various histological grades of Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Expression of Bcl-2 was variable, defined by cytoplasmic granular staining in the epithelial cells. A decrease in mean positivity was seen from well differentiated OSCC to Moderately differentiated OSCC. Weak intensity of Bcl2 staining was seen in all the cases except one case of poorly differentiated oral squamous cell carcinoma.

Conclusion: The pattern of expression of biomarkers, not only help in diagnosing oral lesion but also in identifying prognostic markers. Alterations in the expression of proteins related to cell proliferation and apoptosis are a strong indicator of the malignant transformation potential of certain lesions.