Expressions of stem cell transcription factors Nanog and Oct4 in renal cell carcinoma tissues and clinical significance

Abstract

We aimed to detect the expressions of stem cell transcription factors Nanog and Oct4 in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) tissues. Nanog and Oct4 mRNA expressions in RCC tissues significantly exceeded those in paracancerous tissues (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05), being positively correlated with histological grade (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05) and TNM stage (p < 0.05). With increasing TNM stage (p < 0.01) and lymphatic metastasis (p < 0.05), the positive expression rate of Nanog protein increased. RCC patients with low Nanog and Oct4 expressions in tumor tissues had significantly higher survival rates (p < 0.05). High Nanog and Oct4 expressions may be potential therapeutic targets.