The thesis explores the role of extracellular matrix proteins (ECM), specifically focusing on Ameloblastin (AMBN), in the progression of various cancer forms. Supported by four accompanying articles, Tianxiang's research suggests AMBN could be a prognostic indicator in different cancers.
Bioinformatic analyses of publicly available data revealed that AMBN levels could be correlated with the overall survival in patients with ovarian serous cystadenocarcinoma. Further studies in testicular cancer patient groups indicated a role for AMBN in the progression and recurrence risk of this cancer type. AMBN was also found to be not limited to organs involved in reproduction but extended to brain tissue tumours, including glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), and juxtaposed to neuroblastoma. These findings demonstrated that the levels of AMBN expression could indicate the progression of both these cancer types. Genes correlating with AMBN levels were also identified as potential independent prognostic markers.
Overall, Geng's comprehensive work confirmed the thesis hypothesis, revealing that the expression of AMBN could significantly influence cancer development across various types, stages, and molecular pathways. This positions AMBN as a potential prognosis marker and a therapeutic intervention target.
The doctoral committee included Assistant Professor Costas Bouyioukos, Université Paris Cité, France; Lektor Adelina Rogowska-Wrzesinska, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark; and Associate Professor Hans Jacob Rønold from our institute. The defence was led by Institute Leader Carl Hjortsjö, with Professor Janne E Reseland and Athina Samara as supervisors.
Natalia Andronova can provide a digital version of the thesis.
Congratulations to Dr Tianxiang Geng on his remarkable achievement, and we eagerly look forward to his future contributions to biomaterials and cancer research.
