Immunoexpression of stem cell markers in ameloblastoma

Objective Ameloblastoma (AME) is a benign, odontogenic neoplasm characterized by a locally invasive growth pattern. In the interest of understanding the aggressiveness of neoplasms, research on the role of stem cells has gained prominence. SOX-2, NANOG, and OCT4 transcription factors are important stem cell biomarkers. Study Design Immunohistochemistry was performed to verify the expression of these transcription factors in tissue samples of AME, dentigerous cyst (CD), and dental follicle (DF). In addition, indirect immunofluorescence and transcriptomic analysis were performed from a cell line derived from AME (AME-hTERT). Results The expression of SOX-2, NANOG, and OCT4 was observed in tissue samples and in the AME-hTERT cell line. Higher immunostaining of the studied proteins was observed in AME in comparison to CD and FD (p<0.001). There was also an association of OCT4 and SOX-2 proteins in AME neoplastic cells (p=0.0294). Transcriptomic analysis revealed a network of mutual interaction between the three transcription factors. Conclusion The presence of these biomarkers indicates a probable role of stem cells in the genesis and progression of AME. Ameloblastoma (AME) is a benign, odontogenic neoplasm characterized by a locally invasive growth pattern. In the interest of understanding the aggressiveness of neoplasms, research on the role of stem cells has gained prominence. SOX-2, NANOG, and OCT4 transcription factors are important stem cell biomarkers. Immunohistochemistry was performed to verify the expression of these transcription factors in tissue samples of AME, dentigerous cyst (CD), and dental follicle (DF). In addition, indirect immunofluorescence and transcriptomic analysis were performed from a cell line derived from AME (AME-hTERT). The expression of SOX-2, NANOG, and OCT4 was observed in tissue samples and in the AME-hTERT cell line. Higher immunostaining of the studied proteins was observed in AME in comparison to CD and FD (p<0.001). There was also an association of OCT4 and SOX-2 proteins in AME neoplastic cells (p=0.0294). Transcriptomic analysis revealed a network of mutual interaction between the three transcription factors. The presence of these biomarkers indicates a probable role of stem cells in the genesis and progression of AME.