Is expression of p120ctn in oral squamous cell carcinomas a prognostic factor?

p120ctn is a component of the catenin family. To date, there have only been two studies examining expression levels of p120ctn in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Paraffined specimens of 113 OSCCs and 12 of normal mucosa were examined by immunohistochemistry. Frozen samples of 20 OSCCs and 5 of normal mucosa were examined by Western blot (WB). Results were correlated with clinicopathological parameters. Five cell lines were examined by immunofluorescence, immunocytochemistry, and WB to show immunoreactivity and cellular localization of p120ctn. Altered p120ctn expression was observed in 109/113 cases of OSCC. Heterogenous cytoplasmic/nuclear expression was associated with loss of membranous distribution (88/113 cases). Complete loss of expression was noted in 21/113 cases. Increased cytoplasmic expression was evident in all positive cases, without significant correlation among p120ctn staining/pattern and grading/stage. Reduction/absence of p120ctn expression was related to poor prognosis (P < .05). p120ctn delocalization/loss of expression could be an independent prognostic marker in OSCC.