Conclusion
Among the EMT markers we evaluated in our study, it was seen that Zeb1, which is an EMT transcription factor, is associated with tumor stage, LNM, and OS. Remarkably, Zeb1 expression observed in tumor stroma was also significant for OS. Any similar data reported for LSCCs have not been encountered in the literature, and it was thought that it would be appropriate to support our findings with further studies to be performed on this subject.
Key words. Laryngeal carcinoma, E-cadherin; Beta-catenin; N-cadherin; ZEB1, SMA
What is already known about this topic; Signal activation of epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) in the tumors is thought to be associated with invasion, metastasis, recurrence and the development of resistance to treatment.
What does this article add: There are controversial results regarding the relationship between the presence of EMT and the prognosis in laringeal squamous cell carcinomas (LSCC). In our study, it was noted that only as an EMT-TF, Zeb1 is associated with poor prognosis in LSCC. In addition Zeb1 expression observed in tumor stroma is also significant for overall survival.