The expression of autophagy of Beclinl and MAPLC3 in papillary thyroid and their contribution to invasion and metastasis of papillary thyroid carcinoma

Objective Some studies have showed that the changes of autophagic capacity may be lead to tumorigenesis and carcinoma development. The study was to observe the expression of autophagy-re-lated gene Beclinl and microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain3 (MAPLC3 ) protein in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) and explore their contribution to therapy of papillary thyroid carcinoma. Methods The expression of Beclinl and MAPLC3 protein in 40 specimens of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) ,35 specimens of benign disease of thyroid and 20 specimens of normal thyroid tissues were detected by western-blotting method. Results The protein levels of Beclinl and MAPLC3 is significantly higher in benign disease tissues and normal tissues than in papillary thyroid carcinoma tissues (5.48±0. 63 and 5.93±0.88 vs 3.05±0.43 for Beclinl ,F=205.30,P<0.05) ;3.18±0.49 and 3.55±0.53 vs 2.17±0.37, F=91. 53,P<0. 05). Conclusion Expiession of Beclinl and MAPLC3 autophagy-related genes are down-regulated in papillary thyroid carcinoma tissues. The decrease of autophagic capacity may related to tumorigenesis and the development of papillary thyroid carcinoma. Key words: Papillary thyroid carcinoma; Autophagy; Beclinl; MAPLC3