Prognostic significance of NDRG2 combined with EGFR-sensitizing mutations in lung adenocarcinoma

Background: N-myc downstream-regulated gene 2 (NDRG2) plays a substantial role in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-sensitizing mutation could significantly improve prognosis in patients with LUAD. Here, we aimed to elucidate the prognostic value of NDRG2 combined with EGFR-sensitizing mutations in patients with LUAD. Methods: Lung parenchyma specimens obtained during surgery or CT-guide percutaneous lung puncture biopsy for the NDRG2 protein and EGFR genomic testing were obtained. Associations between NDRG2/EGFR and clinicopathological characteristics of patients with LUAD were extracted from the Tianjin First Central Hospital in China between June 2013 and June 2014. Results: The expression of NDRG2 was significantly decreased in patients with LUAD. Expressions of NDRG2 and EGFR-sensitizing mutations showed positive correlations with survival. Expression of NDRG2 and EGFR-sensitizing mutations were associated with the longer overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS) and progression-free survival (PFS). Advanced stages were significantly associated with low expression of NDRG2. In multivariate analysis, compared with other patients, NDRG2 (+)/EGFR (+) was independently associated with prolonged OS and PFS. Conclusion: NDRG2 combined with EGFR-sensitizing mutations might be valuable markers to evaluate the prognosis of LUAD patients.