Key differences identified between actinic keratosis and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma by transcriptome profiling
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ABSTRACT: Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is one of the most common malignancies in fair skinned populations worldwide and its incidence is increasing. Despite previous observations of multiple genetic abnormalities in cSCC, the oncogenic process remains elusive. The purpose of this study was to investigate the transcriptomes of cSCC and actinic keratoses (AK), to elucidate key differences between precursor AK lesions and invasive carcinoma. This study identified 196 genes that are differentially expressed between AK and cSCC, with enrichment for processes including epidermal differentiation, cell migration, cell cycle regulation and metabolism. Gene set enrichment analysis highlighted a key role for the MAPK pathway in the transition from AK to cSCC. Furthermore, the differentiation status of the tumor influenced the gene expression profile, which may have implications for drug sensitivity and response in clinical trials. These data indicate that progression to cSCC is associated with a complex pattern of molecular changes. We have identified relevant pathways involved in this process, in particular that the MAPK pathway may be pivotal to the transition from AK and may represent a potential therapeutic target.
ORGANISM(S): Homo sapiens
PROVIDER: GSE45216 | GEO | 2014/01/21
SECONDARY ACCESSION(S): PRJNA193219
REPOSITORIES: GEO
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