Expression Pattern of Phosphatase and Tensin Homolog and Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor in Patients with Brain Tumor

Abstract

Abstract Background: The term “brain tumor” refers to a diverse group of neoplasms that originate in intracranial tissues and the meninges and range in malignancy from benign to aggressive. The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is expressed at high levels in a variety of cancers, suggesting a role in cancer etiology. Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) deleted from chromosome 10 is one of the most essential tumor suppressor genes, and it is frequently altered in brain, breast, kidney, lung, and uterine malignancies. Many people with brain malignancies have PTEN gene abnormalities. Brain tumors have proved challenging to treat, largely owing to the biological characteristics of these cancers, which often conspire to limit progress. The present study aimed to analyze the expression of EGFR and PTEN in different types of brain tumor. Methods: Tumor samples were collected. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) analysis, Western blot, and RNA expression analysis were performed to check the receptor expression. Results: IHC analysis showed the expression of EGFR in patients with meningioma, CP angle tumor, and pituitary adenoma, but no expression of PTEN was observed. In glioma, the expression of both the receptors was observed. RNA expression of PTEN was similar to control, and significantly higher expression of EGFR was observed in patients with CP angle tumor, pituitary adenoma, and meningioma. Higher expression of PTEN and EGFR was observed in glioma samples. In the present study, we have also observed the expression of EGFR, p-AKT, and p-STAT 3 in the tumor tissue samples, but no expression of PTEN was observed in CP angle, meningioma, and pituitary adenoma. Expression of both PTEN and EGFR was observed in glioma samples. Conclusion: Thus, EGFR and PTEN involved in brain tumors can be considered targets for therapeutic purposes.