Optimizing Biomarker Detection for Prostate and Breast Cancer: Investigating the Role of Plectin-1 and S100A4 in Metastasis

Authors: Faisal Saquib, Zulema Cabail

SUNY Campus: SUNY Old Westbury

Presentation Type: Poster

Location: Old Union Hall

Presentation #: 57

Timeslot: Session D 3:00-4:00 PM

Abstract: This study is part of an immunohistochemistry final project conducted as a Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) in the Histology Lab. The project aims to evaluate biomarkers for differentiating normal from cancerous prostate and breast tissues while optimizing methodologies and streamlining histological workflows. We obtained formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) paired prostate tissue sections diagnosed with grade IV adenocarcinoma and FFPE paired breast tissue sections diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma. As part of our CURE, we used the AMACR (P504S) primary antibody, which is upregulated in malignant prostate carcinoma but not in benign tissue, and the HER2 primary antibody, a routine marker for determining receptor status in breast cancer. However, we were unable to detect any signal using these antibodies in our initial trials. To validate our methodology and improve workflow efficiency, we plan to implement quality control measures to ensure accurate and reliable results. We will also evaluate alternative antibodies, including PSA and NKX3.1 for prostate cancer and ER and Ki-67 for breast cancer. Additionally, we will analyze the expression of Plectin-1 and S100A4 in both tissue types. Plectin-1 plays a key role in regulating cell migration and invasion, while S100A4 promotes cell motility, invasion, and angiogenesis. Given that both prostate and breast cancer samples are in the invasive stage, we hypothesize that these biomarkers will be elevated in cancerous tissues compared to their normal counterparts. These efforts aim to enhance biomarker detection protocols.