Expression analysis of lncRNAs in pituitary adenoma

Abstract

Recent investigations have demonstrated abnormal expression of non-coding RNAs in pituitary adenomas. Cntribution of many lncRNAs to the pathogenesis of these tumors has not been evaluated yet. HOTTIP, ANRIL, PANDAR, PCGEM1 and HOTAIR are among lncRNAs with established roles in the pathogenesis of human cancers, particularly those originated from endocrine organs. The current study aims at assessment of expression of these lncRNAs in pituitary adenomas in comparison with the adjacent non-cancerous pituitary tissues. HOTAIR expression was absent from the majority of adenoma and non-tumoral samples. Expression of HOTTIP was significantly higher in non-functioning pituitary adenoma (NFPA) samples compared with paired normal samples (expression ratio (95% CI)= 2.1 (1.13-2.1), P value=0.03). Expression of PANDAR was higher in total adenoma samples compared with paired normal samples (expression ratio (95% CI)= 1.91 (1.16-3.13), P value=0.02). Expression of ANRIL was higher in NFPA samples compared with paired normal samples (expression ratio (95% CI)= 1.94 (1.05-3.6), P value=0.048) and in total adenoma samples compared with paired normal samples (expression ratio (95% CI)= 1.82 (1.11-2.98), P value=0.025). The current study raises the possibility of contribution of lncRNAs in the pathogenesis of at least some subtypes of pituitary adenomas and warrant further functional studies in this field.