Death from early colorectal cancer is predicted by the presence of transcripts of the REG gene family
2000

REG Gene Family and Colorectal Cancer Survival

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Macadam R C A, Sarela A I, Farmery S M, Robinson P A, Markham A F, Guillou P J

Primary Institution: University of Leeds, St James's University Hospital

Hypothesis

The study investigates whether the presence of REG gene family transcripts can predict outcomes in early colorectal cancer.

Conclusion

The presence of REG gene transcripts in early-stage colorectal cancer is associated with a significantly worse survival rate after surgery.

Supporting Evidence

  • REG transcripts were found in 53% of colorectal cancers.
  • PAP gene transcripts were found in 60% of colorectal cancers.
  • REG transcripts were present in tumor cells rather than inflammatory or stromal cells.
  • REG expression had a significantly adverse effect on survival in non-metastatic patients after surgery.

Takeaway

If certain genes are found in early colorectal cancer, it might mean the cancer could come back after treatment, so doctors might need to be extra careful.

Methodology

Transcripts for the REG and PAP genes were analyzed in colorectal cancer samples using RT-PCR and in situ hybridization.

Limitations

No significant correlations were found between gene expression and tumor stage, age, sex, or tumor site.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1054/bjoc.2000.1227

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