Identification of a Novel GRHL3/HOPX/Wnt/β-Catenin Proto-oncogenic Axis in Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Esophagus

Abstract

Background & Aims: Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is an aggressive malignancy with a poor long-term prognosis. The molecular mechanisms underlying the initiation and progression of this tumor are largely unknown. The transcription factor GRHL3 functions as a potent tumor suppressor in SCC of skin, head, and neck. This study aims to determine whether GRHL3 also plays a role in the homeostasis of the esophageal epithelium and in the development of ESCC. Methods: The effects of Grhl3 deletion on squamous epithelial homeostasis in embryos and adult mice were examined using immunohistochemistry, transmission electron microscopy, and real-time polymerase chain reaction. The conditionall..