SOLUBLE FRAGMENT OF THE RECEPTOR TYROSINE KINASE AXL AS A LIQUID BIOPSY BIOMARKER IN BLADDER CANCER

Abstract

Aim of the study: The study compared urinary levels of soluble Axl between bladder cancer patients and controls, with the goal of studying its potential as a biomarker for bladder cancer. In addition to that, the expression of Axl in bladder cancer tissue and the impact of urine treatment on the migration of bladder cancer cells were assessed. Background: Axl has been investigated as a biomarker in serum for various cancers. However, little research has been conducted on its potential as a biomarker in urine, particularly for bladder cancer. Methodology: Urine was collected from adult bladder cancer patients and controls. Axl levels in urine were detected using Western blot, and its concentrations were measured by ELISA. Immunohistochemistry was performed to assess Axl expression in bladder cancer tissue obtained from patients. Migration assays were conducted with treatment of wounds using urine to assess its biological activity on bladder cancer cells. Results and Conclusion: While no significant difference was observed in sAxl levels between patients and controls, a positive correlation was noted in Axl staining of bladder cancer tissue with sAxl levels in the urine of patients. Recombinant Axl did not exhibit any effect on the migration of cells for wound closure.