Microrna-Mediated Extracellular Matrix Remodeling In Squamous Cell Carcinoma Of The Oral Cavity

Background We evaluated microRNAs and extracellular matrix component profiles in squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity (OSCC) in comparison to healthy mucosa.Methods Retrospective study investigating 64 microRNAs related to oncogenic process and to constituents of the extracellular matrix. We also performed immunohistochemical assays for molecules involved in the same biological processes.Results High expression of miR-21-5p (p < 0.001) and miR-106-5p (p < 0.001) and low expression of miR-320a (p = 0.001) and miR-222-3p (p = 0.001) were predictors of malignancy. Individually, miR-21-5p exhibited the best statistical performance (area under the curve = 0.972; 95% confidence interval: 0.911-1.000) in the differentiation between tumor tissue and healthy mucosa. Moreover, tumor sample showed increased expression of MMP-2, MMP-9, alpha-laminin, and beta-laminin in tumor-related fibroblasts and lower continuity of type IV collagen in the basement membrane.Conclusion The present study demonstrates the biological effects of microRNAs on the carcinogenesis of OSCC as well as the intense modification of the tumor microenvironment.