Association between ZIP10 gene expression and tumor aggressiveness in renal cell carcinoma

• ZIP10 mRNA was significantly higher in high grade clear cell RCC.
• No significant change in ZIP10 mRNA was observed between stages of clear cell RCC.
• Significant difference was observed in the ZIP10 mRNA in different types of RCC.
• Significant correlation was found between ZIP10 mRNAs with aggressiveness of RCC.

Zinc is an indispensable trace element which is vital for the functioning of numerous cellular processes like cell replication and growth. Cellular zinc homeostasis is tightly regulated by zinc transporters involved in zinc influx and efflux processes. Notwithstanding, the association of zinc transporters with the aggressiveness of cancer, especially renal cell carcinoma (RCC), is unknown. In view of the fact, the present study was initiated to ascertain whether ZIP10 transporter expression is modulated during RCC progression. A total of 57 samples of RCC and corresponding normal renal tissue were analyzed for ZIP10 gene expression by real time PCR. We observed significantly higher expression of ZIP10 mRNA (P = 0.002) in high grade clear cell RCC tissue (Grades III & IV) as compared to low grade clear cell RCC tissue (Grades I & II). A significant difference was also observed in the ZIP10 expression in different types of RCC (P = 0.001). This is the first study which shows a significant correlation between ZIP10 mRNA expressions with aggressiveness of RCC. Therefore, ZIP10 mRNA expression could be used as a possible biomarker for the aggressive behavior of RCC and a promising target of novel treatment strategies.