Expression pattern of APC and P53 proteins in left-sided and right-sided colorectal cancers in Ghanaians

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Introduction Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. The relative 5-year survival rate in developed countries is 65% compared to Ghana’s 16%. Loss of APC and p53 protein function impacts CRC, with potential differences in their expression between lefte and right sided tumors, and influences treatment options. This study investigated APC and p53 proteins expression in left- and right-sided CRC (LCRC and RCRC) among Ghanaians.Methods Archived formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded LCRC and RCRC and normal colon tissues were sectioned for APC and p53 expression patterns assessment by immunohistochemistry. Demographic and clinicopathological data corresponding to samples were retrieved for analysis by descriptive and inferential methods at p < 0.05.Results Sixty LCRC, 30 RCRC, and 19 normal tissues were included. Seventy-four percent of the cases expressed APC and p53. 70% of LCRCs expressed APC against 86.7% of RCRCs. p53 expression was 75 and 70%, respectively, among LCRCs and RCRCs. No significant correlation existed between APC and p53 expression and the grade and stage of both LCRCs and RCRCs.Conclusion APC and p53 expression in LCRCs and RCRCs suggest that the cause of CRCs among Ghanaians may not be the loss of the proteins. Additional genetic factors may play a role in CRC initiation.