How a gene affects survival in pancreatic cancer
Author Information
Author(s): Barber M D, Powell J J, Lynch S F, Fearon K C H, Ross J A
Primary Institution: University Department of Surgery, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh
Hypothesis
Does a polymorphism of the interleukin-1 β gene influence survival in pancreatic cancer patients?
Conclusion
Patients with a specific genetic variant of the interleukin-1 β gene have shorter survival times and higher levels of a protein associated with inflammation.
Supporting Evidence
- Patients homozygous for allele 2 of the IL-1b gene had significantly shorter survival than other groups.
- Higher IL-1b production was observed in patients with allele 2.
- Possession of allele 2 was associated with significantly shorter survival (median 144 vs 256 days).
- Significantly higher CRP levels were found in patients with allele 2.
Takeaway
Some people have a gene that makes them produce more of a certain protein when they have pancreatic cancer, and this can make them live for a shorter time.
Methodology
The study analyzed genomic DNA from pancreatic cancer patients and healthy controls to determine the effect of a specific gene polymorphism on survival and inflammation.
Participant Demographics
64 patients with pancreatic cancer and 101 healthy controls
Statistical Information
P-Value
P = 0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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