Exploring the role of transcription factor TWIST1 in bladder cancer progression.

Abstract

The transcription factor TWIST1 is a major regulator of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition, enhancing cancer cell mobility and invasive potential. Overexpression of TWIST1 is associated with tumor progression and poor prognosis. In our study, we explored the role of TWIST1 as both a prognostic biomarker and a therapeutic target in bladder cancer (BC), as well as the relationship between its promoter methylation and mRNA expression in bladder cancer patients. In cohort of 66 bladder cancer patients, we explored TWIST1 expression levels in tumor samples through RT-qPCR analysis; Our findings revealed a significant correlation between high TWIST1 expression levels and advanced bladder tumor stages, grades, and progression; suggesting its association with aggressive BC phenotypes. Importantly, patients with low TWIST1 expression exhibited significantly prolonged disease-free survival (DFS), indicating its potential as a prognostic marker for stratification and as a therapeutic target in advanced BC. In contrast, there was no direct correlation between TWIST1 promoter methylation status and TWIST1 expression levels in BC tumors. In summary, TWIST1 expression could play an important role as a molecular marker for BC patients' prognosis and overall survival prediction. Moreover, our results suggest that TWIST1 promoter methylation doesn't affect the gene expression in BC. Furthermore, understanding the molecular mechanisms driving TWIST1 dysregulation may uncover novel therapeutic targets to improve the management of BC.