Growth Differentiation Factor 15 as a Prognostic Marker in Colorectal Cancer
Author Information
Author(s): Wallin U, Glimelius B, Jirström K, Darmanis S, Nong R Y, Pontén F, Johansson C, Påhlman L, Birgisson H
Primary Institution: University of Minnesota
Hypothesis
The study aims to assess the prognostic value of GDF15 in patients with colorectal cancer.
Conclusion
Growth differentiation factor 15 serves as a negative prognostic marker in colorectal cancer, with high expression correlating to increased risk of recurrence and reduced overall survival.
Supporting Evidence
- Patients with moderate to high intensity of GDF15 had a higher recurrence rate.
- High plasma levels of GDF15 were associated with shorter time to recurrence.
- Immunohistochemical analysis showed higher GDF15 intensity in tumor tissue compared to normal tissue.
Takeaway
This study found that a protein called GDF15 can help doctors predict if colorectal cancer will come back after treatment.
Methodology
Immunohistochemistry and tissue microarrays were used to analyze GDF15 protein expression in 320 patients with colorectal cancer.
Limitations
The study was limited by the small sample size for plasma analyses and potential variability in tissue handling.
Participant Demographics
Patients with colorectal cancer treated between August 2000 and December 2003.
Statistical Information
P-Value
P=0.041 for time to recurrence; P=0.002 for overall survival.
Confidence Interval
95% CI, 1.16–13.15 for recurrence; 95% CI, 1.15–92.51 for stage III.
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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