RUNX2 and WWOX genes as molecular biomarkers and candidates for targeted therapy in Egyptian patients with primary conventional osteosarcoma

摘要

Background The conventional osteosarcoma (OS) is the commonest primary malignant, bone tumor with complex genomic profiles and poor survival. Runt-related transcription factor 2 ( RUNX2 ) and WW domain containing oxidoreductase ( WWOX ) genes are implicated in normal osteogenesis as well as in the development of primary conventional OS. Methods We retrospectively assessed protein and RNA expression of the RUNX2 and WWOX genes by quantitative real time PCR (qPCR) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) in 80 cases of primary OS and 20 normal control (NC) subjects. Proteins and RNA expression levels of both genes were correlated to clinico-pathological features of the patients, progression free and overall survival (PFS& OS) rates. Results In OS, RUNX2 protein was detected in 72/80 (90%) cases compared to 4/20 (20%) NC samples ( p .?Conclusions RUNX2 and WWOX play opposing roles in the development and progression of OS. They could be used as sensitive prognostic biomarkers for OS patients and RUNX2 represents a promising candidate for targeted therapy.