Immunoexpression of p53 and p16 proteins as biomarkers in oral carcinogenesis

ABSTRACT

Objective: Defects in the cell cycle control system can lead to phenotype changes and consequently to the progression of oral cancer. Thus, the aim of this study was to analyze the immunohistochemical expression of p53 and p16 and their connection with hyperplastic and neoplastic progression. Materials and Methods: Sixty-four histopathologic specimens were submitted to immunohistochemical technique to anti-p53 and anti-p16. Results: This study showed a significant increase in the level of p53 in dysplasia and oral carcinomas. Regarding p16 immunoexpression, a decrease was observed in mild to moderate dysplasia, and remained consnt between moderate dysplasia to poorly differentiated carcinoma. Conclusion: The study confirmed that the higher expression of p53 protein plays a significant role in tumor development and oral cancer progression, while the loss of p16 expression seems to be related only for the progression of carcinogenesis.Keywords Proteins. Immunohistochemical. Genes, p53. Genes, p16. Mouth. Neoplasms.