Bcl-2 Protein Expression in the Oral Mucosa of Smokers: An Immunohistochemical Comparison with Non-Smokers

Faris M Elmahdi, Esraa T. Niazy, Fawzyah M. Taher

Abstract: Tobacco use is a major risk factor for oral cancer, known to disrupt cellular apoptosis, DNA repair, and proliferation mechanisms. This study investigates the immunohistochemical expression of Bcl-2 protein in the oral mucosa of Saudi cigarette smokers, aiming to explore its potential as a prognostic biomarker. A total of 200 buccal mucosa samples were collected, 100 from smokers and 100 from non-smokers-between January and May 2025. Using immunohistochemical techniques, the samples were analyzed for Bcl-2 expression and cytological abnormalities. Results showed that 48% of smokers had abnormal cytological findings compared to 20% of non-smokers. Additionally, smokers demonstrated a higher Bcl-2 expression (12%) compared to non-smokers (5%). The findings underscore the harmful cellular effects of smoking and suggest that Bcl-2 may serve as a useful biomarker in assessing oral health risks in tobacco users.

Keywords: oral mucosa, Bcl-2 expression, tobacco use, immunohistochemistry, cytological abnormalities

How to Cite?: Faris M Elmahdi, Esraa T. Niazy, Fawzyah M. Taher, "Bcl-2 Protein Expression in the Oral Mucosa of Smokers: An Immunohistochemical Comparison with Non-Smokers", Volume 14 Issue 7, July 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1828-1832, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR25728021451, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR25728021451