Expression of β-catenin and AXIN2 in ameloblastomas

Aim of the study<bold>:</bold> To investigate the expression status and association of beta-catenin and AXIN2 in ameloblastoma. Material and methods: 30 ameloblastoma specimens and 10 normal oral mucosa tissues were enrolled in the study. The protein and RNA levels of beta-catenin and AXIN2 were detected by immunohistochemistry staining, Western blot, and real-time PCR analysis. The relationship between beta-catenin and AXIN2 protein and clinico-pathological parameters and prognosis was subsequently determined. Results<bold>:</bold> The results show that beta-catenin mRNA expression was 1.24-fold higher in ameloblastomas than that in normal mucosa tissues, but AXIN2 mRNA expression was 0.47-fold lower in ameloblastomas than that in normal mucosa tissues (p < 0.05). The Western blot results show that beta-catenin and AXIN2 protein in ameloblastomas had a significantly higher level than normal mucosa tissues (p < 0.05). Immunohistochemical staining of beta-catenin and AXIN2 protein in ameloblastoma was expressed at a higher level than normal oral mucosa (p < 0.05). Conclusions: AXIN2 and beta-catenin play an important role in the tumorigenesis and progression of ameloblastoma.