K-ras Mutation in Colorectal Cancer and Its Relation to Patient Characteristics
Author Information
Author(s): J. Breivik, G.I. Meling, A. Spurkland, T.O. Rognum, G. Gaudernack
Primary Institution: University of Oslo
Hypothesis
Is the frequency or type of K-ras mutations related to patient age, sex, and tumor location in colorectal cancer?
Conclusion
K-ras mutations in colorectal cancer are significantly related to the age and sex of patients, as well as the location of the tumors.
Supporting Evidence
- K-ras mutations were found in 39% of the tumor samples analyzed.
- Mutations were significantly related to patient age and sex.
- Older men had more mutations than older women.
- Specific mutations were more frequent in rectal tumors from females.
Takeaway
This study looked at cancer samples from people and found that certain mutations are more common in older men and women, and in different parts of the colon.
Methodology
DNA from 251 primary tumors was analyzed for K-ras mutations using PCR and hybridization techniques.
Limitations
The study may have underestimated the frequency of mutations by only testing specific codons.
Participant Demographics
123 male and 125 female Norwegian patients aged 24 to 94 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.008
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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