ARID1A upregulation predicts better survival in patients with urothelial bladder carcinoma

OBJECTIVE: AT-rich interactive domain-containing protein 1A (ARID1A) is frequently mutated or deficient in various types of tumors. However, the role of ARID1A in bladder cancer remains unclear. We aimed to evaluate ARID1A expression and its biological role and correlation with prognosis in patients with urothelial bladder carcinoma (BUC). METHODS: ARID1A expression levels in BUC and normal tissues were assessed by immunohistochemistry and correlated with clinicopathological characteristics and patient outcomes. Downregulation of ARID1A was mimicked by transfection with small interfering RNA in T24 bladder cancer cells, and the effects on cell proliferation and migration were evaluated. RESULTS: ARID1A expression was significantly reduced in BUC tissues and was significantly associated with T stage and AJCC stage. Upregulation of ARID1A predicted a better prognosis in BUC patients. ARID1A expression and lymph node status were identified as independent prognostic factors for overall survival. Silencing of ARID1A promoted the proliferation of BUC cells. CONCLUSIONS: ARID1A may represent a novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in patients with BUC.