Abstract 756P
Background
Retinoblastoma is a malignant tumor of the retina involving complex molecular and genetic mechanisms. The modulating factors within the tumor microenvironment such as survivin, TNF-α, and TGF-β play crucial roles in tumor progression and immune responses. This study aims to elucidate the expression patterns of these biomarkers in retinoblastoma patients for clinical benefits.
Methods
This was the prospective study which includes 52 primary retinoblastoma patients. mRNA expression was analysed using qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry (IHC) was performed for analysing protein expression of survivin, TNF-α, and TGF-β in tissue samples of retinoblastoma patients. ELISA was performed for analysing the levels of these proteins in serum samples. Statistical analysis was performed to correlate their expression with clinicopathological parameters and patient outcome.
Results
There was a male preponderance (65%) in our study. Histopathology revealed high-risk features in 52.85% of cases receiving chemotherapy, with necrosis and calcification in 59.61% and 40.38% cases, respectively. Poorly differentiated tumors were found in 85.7% of cases. qRT-PCR results showed upregulation of survivin and TGF-β in more than 70% of cases, and downregulation of TNF-α in all the cases. Concordant results were found with IHC, supporting PCR findings. Serum quantification through ELISA revealed higher TGF-β levels in 90% of cases as compared to survivin and TNF-α levels. On statistical analysis, patients with poorly differentiated tumors were statistically significant with TGF- β expression (p=0.002), whereas optic nerve retrolaminar invasion correlated significantly with survivin & TNF-α expression (p=0.025).
Conclusions
The differential expression of survivin, TNF-α, and TGF-β underscores their roles in retinoblastoma pathophysiology. The upregulation of survivin and TGF-β in tissues may contribute to tumor growth and immune evasion, whereas downregulated TNF-α suggests an impaired inflammatory response. These findings highlight potential targets for therapeutic intervention and warrant further investigation into their roles in retinoblastoma.
Clinical trial identification
Editorial acknowledgement
Legal entity responsible for the study
The authors.
Funding
Indian Council of Medical Research.
Disclosure
All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.