Gene Expression in Colorectal Cancer and Treatment Response
Author Information
Author(s): Uchida Kazumi, Danenberg Peter V, Danenberg Kathleen D, Grem Jean L
Primary Institution: USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center
Hypothesis
The study aims to determine the relationship between gene expression of specific molecular markers and clinical outcomes in colorectal cancer patients treated with oxaliplatin and capecitabine.
Conclusion
Higher levels of thymidylate synthase mRNA expression are associated with a greater risk of early disease progression, while lower levels correlate with improved overall survival.
Supporting Evidence
- 97% of participants had colorectal cancer.
- Patients with high TS mRNA levels had a greater risk of early disease progression.
- High ERCC1 expression was associated with shorter time to treatment failure.
Takeaway
This study looked at how certain genes in cancer tissues can help predict how well patients will respond to treatment. It found that some genes can indicate if a patient might do better or worse with their therapy.
Methodology
Biopsies of metastatic tumors were analyzed for gene expression using real-time quantitative PCR, and correlations with clinical outcomes were assessed.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from the retrospective nature of some analyses and the variability in treatment regimens.
Limitations
The small sample size and heterogeneity of the patient population may limit the generalizability of the results.
Participant Demographics
The median age of participants was 56 years, with a majority being male (61 out of 91). Most had prior chemotherapy treatments.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.046 for ERCC1, p = 0.042 for TS
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website