Expression of neprilysin gene in different diseases of the vulva

NEP gene is submitted to alternative splicing to four types of transcripts: 1, 1 bis, 2a and 2b. The aim of this study was assessment of the NEP gene’s transcripts levels using RT-PCR in vulvar tissues with different kinds of pathology. Material for the study was collected during surgical procedures from tumors of vulvar cancer (17 samples), 9 samples of lichen sclerosus, and 7 samples of healthy skin from surgical margin taken during plastic vulvar-perineal surgery as a control group. RT-PCR analysis was performed. All of the removed tissues were also analyzed histopathologically. No types 1 bis and 2b transcripts were found in control group, lichen sclerosus group and well differentiated vulvar cancer group (G-1). These transcripts were present only in moderately or poorly differentiated vulvar cancer samples (G-2, G-3). No NEP expression was found in lichen sclerosus group, except small quantities of 2a transcript. The numbers of types 2a and 2b transcripts mRNA copies in moderately or poorly differentiated vulvar cancer samples (G-2, G-3) were statistically significant higher than in well differentiated vulvar cancer. It seems, these NEP transcripts are involved in progression of vulvar cancer, but more detailed studies with larger groups of patients are necessary to make sure of the real NEP function in that process.