Cyclin D1 genotype in areca-associated oral squamous cell carcinoma

Background: Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most common malignancy in areca-chewing regions, accounting for up to 50% of malignant tumors in some South Asian countries. Amplification and/or over-expression of cyclin D1 (CCND1) is a frequent event in human malignancies, including OSCC. CCND1 G870A polymorphism (codon 242) gives rise to two isoforms of the protein. The objective of the present study was to evaluate if the risk, onset, and prognosis of areca-associated OSCC is related to CCND1 genotypes. Methods: We analyzed the CCND1 genotype in 70 OSCC cases and 93 control Taiwanese using single-strand conformation polymorphism techniques. Results: Statistical analysis showed that CCND1 genotype had no impact on the risk, onset, or survival of areca-associated OSCC. However, buccal squamous cell carcinoma (BSCC) appeared to be less frequently associated with AA genotype than non-BSCC (P=0.02). In addition, amplification of CCND1 was significantly more prevalent in OSCC cases (22%) than in control subjects (2%, P<0.01). Conclusion: This study demonstrates that the CCND1 genotype may confer different risks for BSCC and non-BSCC.