Forkhead box protein 3 (FoxP3) mRNA as a diagnostic marker in ovarian tumors: a pilot study.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To assess the diagnostic performance of forkhead box protein 3 (FoxP3) mRNA in ovarian tumors. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Using quantitative real time reverse transcription PCR (q-RT-PCR), FoxP3 mRNA level was measured in fresh frozen ovarian tumors and its diagnostic performance was compared to those of preoperative serum CA 125 and risk of malignancy index (RMI). RESULTS: FoxP3 mRNA was differentially expressed in the malignant (n = 25) and benign (n = 25) groups, yet without statistically significant differences; positivity rate 15/25 vs. 10/25; p = 0.157, median 0.429 vs. 0.046; p = 0.684, and mean ± SD 73.75 ± 234.68 vs. 247.09 ± 792.17; p = 0.30 1. Although it showed much less diagnostic performance (AUC 0.534), FoxP3 mRNA enhanced the diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of both CA125 and RMI (96% and 100%, for both). CONCLUSION: FoxP3 mRNA may not be good diagnostic marker in ovarian tumors; however it may prove valuable in defining underlying tumor molecular signature.