Prognostic and predictive values of Nrf2, Keap1, p16 and E-cadherin expression in ovarian epithelial carcinoma

Objectives: Despite considerable interest in the Nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/Kelch-like ECH-associated protein-1 (Keap1), p16 and epithelial cadherin (E-cadherin) activation in carcinoma progression, contradictory results regarding association of Nrf2/Keap1/E-cadherin and p16 expression with clinico-pathological features and prognosis have been reported. The predictive value of these markers in ovarian carcinoma is unknown. Methods/Materials: In this retrospective study, 108 cases were evaluated immunohistochemically with antibodies to Nrf2, Keap1, estrogen receptor (ER), p16 and E-cadherin. The results were compared with histological and clinical data, disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). Results: A cohort of 108 ovarian carcinomas (47 serous, 23 mucinous, 13 endometrioid and 25 clear cell), including 68 FIGO stage I-II cases and 40 FIGO stage III-IV cases was studied. The age of patients (P=0.005), FIGO stage (P