Changes in the Expression of Notch and Hif-1α Signaling Molecules in Prostate Cancer Progression

Abstract

Objective: To explore the expression and clinical significance of Notch and HIF-1α signaling molecules in the progression of prostate cancer. Method: A total of 68 cases with prostate cancer were enrolled to detecting the expression level of Notch1, HIF-1α and Hes1 mRNA by qRT-PCR, in which the protein expression was measured by western blotting and immunohistochemistry staining, respectively. Correlation between molecules above and clinical pathological parameters were further analyzed. Results: Both Notch signaling and HIF-1α signaling molecules were overexpressed in prostate cancer on the protein level as well as mRNA level when compared to the para-caner tissues (P<0.05). The expression of these molecules were positive related to local lymphatic metastasis (P<0.05). However, this difference was not significant both in tumor volume and patient's age. Conclusion: Both Notch signaling and HIF-1α signaling pathway related molecules were overexpressed in prostate cancer, which might play an important role in the progression of prostate cancer.