Immunohistochemical of E-Cadherin Expression in the Oral Mucosa of Saudi Smokers and Non-Smokers
Abstract: Background: Smoking is a common habit in Saudi Arabia and a recognized risk factor for oral cancer. Tobacco exposure disrupts normal epithelial cell behavior, particularly adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation. E-cadherin, a vital cell adhesion molecule, maintains epithelial integrity, and its reduced expression may contribute to oral mucosal pathology. Objective: To evaluate the immunohistochemical expression of E-cadherin and associated cytological changes in the oral mucosa of Saudi smokers compared with non-smokers. Methods: This cross-sectional study, conducted between March and June 2025, included 200 buccal mucosa samples from Saudi adults (100 smokers and 100 non-smokers). Samples were collected using exfoliative cytology. Immunohistochemical staining for E-cadherin was performed, and expression was assessed based on staining intensity and the percentage of positive cells. Data were analyzed using SPSS; categorical variables were summarized as frequencies and percentages, and associations were tested using the chi-square test, with P
Keywords: E-cadherin, Oral mucosa, Cytological changes, Smoking, Immunohistochemistry, Saudi population
How to Cite?: Sara M Altom, "Immunohistochemical of E-Cadherin Expression in the Oral Mucosa of Saudi Smokers and Non-Smokers", Volume 14 Issue 12, December 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1627-1631, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR251114122938, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR251114122938