Cytoplasmic SALL4-A isoform expression as a diagnostic marker of less aggressive tumor behavior in gastric cancer

Abstract Background Gastric cancer (GC) poses significant challenges globally, ranking fifth in incidence and fourth in cancer-related mortality. SALL4, a stem cell transcription factor with multiple isoforms, includes SALL4-A as its full-length form. This study aims to evaluate the diagnostic poten...

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Main Authors: Saeed Rahmani, Amirhesam Babajani, Maryam Abolhasani, Roya Ghods, Elham Kalantari, Zahra Madjd
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: BMC 2025-02-01
Series:World Journal of Surgical Oncology
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Online Access:https://doi.org/10.1186/s12957-025-03681-w
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Summary:Abstract Background Gastric cancer (GC) poses significant challenges globally, ranking fifth in incidence and fourth in cancer-related mortality. SALL4, a stem cell transcription factor with multiple isoforms, includes SALL4-A as its full-length form. This study aims to evaluate the diagnostic potential of SALL4-A isoform expression in GC and its clinical significance. Method Immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis was conducted on Tissue Micro Array (TMA) slides from 167 GC patients. Clinicopathological parameters were correlated with SALL4-A expression, and survival analysis was performed. Diagnostic performance was assessed using metrics such as sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve (AUC). Results SALL4-A exhibited distinct cytoplasmic expression in GC, correlating with lower histological grade (p = 0.003) and TNM stage (p = 0.003), particularly in the intestinal subtype. Diagnostic evaluation showed an AUC of 0.803 for cytoplasmic expression, demonstrating high diagnostic potential. However, SALL4-A expression did not show significant prognostic value. Conclusion Cytoplasmic SALL4-A expression in GC is associated with less aggressive tumor phenotypes and shows promise as a diagnostic marker. Further research is warranted to elucidate its mechanistic role and potential integration into clinical practice.
ISSN:1477-7819