Examining Antigenic Similarities: Comparative Analysis of the Light Chain Lectin of Entamoeba histolytica and p53 Protein on the Surface of Colon Adenocarcinoma Cells Biopsy

Abstract

Abstract Background Entamoeba histolytica ranks as the third leading cause of death among parasitic infections worldwide. Despite its significance, the impact of this protozoan on colorectal cancer incidence and its association with the p53 protein in affected patients remain insufficiently explored. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the presence of the E. histolytica lectin light chain antigen and the p53 protein in colorectal cancer biopsies, with the objective of identifying any antigenic similarity between this protozoan and the surface proteins of tumor cells. Materials and Methods A total of 150 colorectal cancer biopsy samples were subjected to examination for the specific E. histolytica antigen and p53 protein through the application of the immunohistochemical technique. To augment diagnostic precision, the western blotting method was employed and its results were compared with those obtained from immunohistochemistry (IHC). Results Among the 150 biopsy samples examined, 100 cases tested positive for the p53 protein, while 19 cases exhibited positivity for the E. histolytica lectin antigen. Notably, only 14 cases demonstrated a positive presence for both the p53 protein and the E. histolytica protozoan. Conclusion Entamoeba histolytica, a leading cause of parasitic infections, raises questions about its potential link to colorectal cancer, specifically in connection with the p53 protein. This study aims to explore the antigenic similarity between the lectin of E. histolytica and the p53 protein on colorectal adenocarcinoma cells, shedding light on the intricate interactions between this protozoan and cancer cells. The findings presented in this investigation signal the need for further research to comprehensively understand the implications of E. histolytica in colorectal cancer diagnosis and treatment strategies.