Gene expression analysis of squamous cell carcinoma of the oesophagus using a novel real time PCR probe system

Abstract

Squamous cell carcinoma of the oesophagus (OSCC) is a common malignancy that occurs with high frequency in certain parts of the world, including South Africa. The aetiology of OSCC has remained unclear although many studies suggest that it is caused by a combination of variable risk factors. Recent reports implicate a variety of genetic factors in the carcinogenesis of OSCC but their involvement is yet to be defined.