Degree
Master of Science
Program
Pathology
Supervisor
Dr. Mark Darling
2nd Supervisor
Dr. Zia Khan
Joint Supervisor
Abstract
Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) of salivary glands is a malignancy known for its slow growth pattern, but poor long-term survival despite aggressive treatment. This highlights the need for an improved approach to its management.
It has been suggested that kallikrein-related peptidases (KLKs), a group of 15 serine proteases, may serve as biomarkers for salivary gland tumors. KLKs are involved in numerous biological processes and have been linked to several cancers.
This study evaluated KLK gene expression in ACC and normal salivary gland tissue (NSGT). Total RNA was isolated from 40 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded samples, which included 25 ACCs and 15 NSGTs. RNA samples were subjected to reverse transcription and RT-qPCR utilizing human-specific KLK1-15 primers. KLK1-KLK15 expression was observed in both ACC and NSGT. Comparative ΔCq analysis found KLK1, KLK8, KLK11, and KLK14 to be downregulated in ACC. This may represent a multiparametric panel for its diagnosis; however, additional studies are needed.
Recommended Citation
Kerr, Zachary R., "Expression of Kallikrein-Related Peptidases (KLKs) in Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma" (2016). Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository. 4096.
https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/etd/4096