Thymidylate Synthase Gene Polymorphism and Colorectal Cancer Survival
Author Information
Author(s): Iacopetta B, Grieu F, Joseph D, Elsaleh H
Primary Institution: University of Western Australia
Hypothesis
Does a polymorphism in the thymidylate synthase promoter influence survival in colorectal cancer patients treated with 5-fluorouracil?
Conclusion
The study found that colorectal cancer patients with a specific thymidylate synthase gene polymorphism do not benefit from 5-fluorouracil chemotherapy, while those without it do.
Supporting Evidence
- High levels of thymidylate synthase expression are linked to poor survival in colorectal cancer patients.
- The 3R/3R genotype showed no significant long-term survival benefit from chemotherapy.
- The 2R/2R or 2R/3R genotypes showed significant gains in survival from chemotherapy.
Takeaway
Some people with colorectal cancer have a gene change that makes their treatment with a common chemotherapy not work as well.
Methodology
The study investigated the association between thymidylate synthase genotype and survival benefit from chemotherapy in colorectal cancer patients.
Participant Demographics
221 Dukes' C stage colorectal cancer patients
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.005
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 0.30–1.25 for 3R/3R; 95% CI: 0.52–0.82 for 2R/2R or 2R/3R
Statistical Significance
p=0.005
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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