The expression of human Runt-related transcription factor 3 in the progression from colorectal polyps to cancer

Objective To explore the expression of human runt-related transcription factor 3 (RUNX3) in the progression from colorectal polyps to cancer. Methods In this study, five groups of specimens were researched: primary colorectal cancer group (n=30), matched normal colorectal tissues group (5 cm away from the tumour, n=30), tubular adenoma group (n=30), villous adenoma group (n=20), and adenoma mixed group (n=30). The protein and mRNA levels of RUNX3 were detected by immunohistochemistry and real-time fluorescent quantitative polymerase chain reaction (FQ-PCR) respectively. Results The positive expression rate of RUNX3 protein in normal colorectal mucosa, colorectal adenoma and colorectal carcinoma tissues was 96.7%, 73.8% and 46.7% respectively, with significant differentces among them (P=0.015). FQ-PCR showed that the expression of RUNX3 mRNA in normal colorectal mucosa, tubular adenoma, mixed pattern of adenoma, villous adenoma and colorectal carcinoma was 33.930 7±8.570 9, 16.459 1±3.383 7, 7.901 2±2.081 6, 3.714 6±1.710 9, and 0.871 5±0.523 1 respectively, F=47.859, P=0.021. Conclusion These results suggested RUNX3 may play a role in the development of colorectal cancer. Key words: Runt-related transcription factor 3; Colorectal cancer; Colorectal adenoma