The changes in MUC5AC expression in gastric cancer before and after Helicobacter pylori eradication

SummaryPurposeTo investigate MUC5AC expression in gastric cancer before and after Hp eradication.MethodsThe MUC5AC protein and mRNA were detected in gastric cancer tissue by western blot and real time PCR protocols before and after Hp eradication (Hp positive group). Gastric cancer tissue without Hp infection served as the control group (Hp negative group).ResultsThe MUC5AC protein and mRNA expression was more significantly increased in gastric cancer after Hp eradication as compared to that before Hp eradication, but it was significantly lower than of the control group. The relative amount of MUC5AC in the well-differentiated cancer was higher than that of the moderately or poorly-differentiated cancer, in either Hp positive or control groups. The relative amount of MUC5AC in cancer tissues with more than five metastatic lymph nodes was significantly lower than that of the cancer tissues with five or less metastatic lymph nodes, and was significantly lower in the Hp positive group as compared to that of the control group.ConclusionsThe reduction of the MUC5AC might be related to gastric carcinogenesis caused by Hp and the progression of gastric cancer.