Purpose: To detect differential expressions of HEIH and DKK3 in gastric cancer (GC) samples, and to elucidate their influences on clinical features and disease prognosis.
Methods: The expression levels of HEIH and DKK3 in GC tissues and adjacent normal ones (>5 cm) were detected by qRT-PCR. Correlation between HEIH and DKK3 levels in GC tissues was analyzed by Pearson's correlation analysis. Sensitivity and specificity of detecting HEIH and DKK3 levels in diagnosing GC were assessed by reactive oxygen species (ROC). 5-year survival in each patient was followed up. Risk factors of prognosis in GC patients were examined by Cox regression model.
Results: HEIH was upregulated, and DKK3 was downregulated in GC tissues, displaying a negative correlation. Both HEIH and DKK3 were correlated to tumor diameter, lymph node metastasis and TNM staging. Combined detection of HEIH and DKK3 levels showed high specificity and sensitivity in the diagnosis of GC. Tumor diameter, lymph node metastasis, TNM staging, HEIH and DKK3 levels were independent risk factors for the prognosis of GC.
Conclusion: The upregulated HEIH and downregulated DKK3 in GC samples showed a negative correlation between each other. HEIH and DKK3 levels were closely linked to tumor diameter, lymph node metastasis and TNM staging in GC patients. These are promising biomarkers for predicting the prognosis of GC.