Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: Although great strides were made toward understanding the pathogenesis of ameloblastoma, the malignant transformation potential remains understudied. This study introduces an updated view on the involvement of MDM-2, MCM-3, and Bcl-X in ameloblastoma variants and ameloblastic carcinoma. Aim: This study aims to investigate the etiopathogenesis controversial role of MDM-2, MCM- 3, and Bcl-X in ameloblastoma variants and ameloblastic carcinoma. Methodology: Forty cases were included in the current study, thirty cases of ameloblastoma and ten cases of ameloblastic carcinoma that were immunohistochemically stained for MDM-2, MCM-3, and Bcl-X antibodies. Results: Statistically significant positive expression of MDM-2, MCM-3, and Bcl-X in ameloblastic carcinoma than ameloblastoma variants. Positive expression was highly detected in conventional, ameloblastoma than unicystic ameloblastoma. Conclusion: Immunoreactivity for MDM-2, MCM-3, and Bcl-X in ameloblastoma variants and ameloblastic carcinoma suggests that these antibodies might be associated with tissue structuring and cytodifferentiation of ameloblastomas and aggressiveness of ameloblastic carcinoma. High levels of MCM-3 and MDM-2 proteins expression are more sensitive in predicting growth rate of tumors. KEYWORDS: Ameloblastoma; ameloblastic carcinoma; Oncogenesis; MDM-2; MCM-3; Bcl-X.