Authors

Abstract

Background and purpose: Colorectal cancer is one of the most important common cancers all over the world. Its prevalence varies with geographical distribution. Its multifactorial cause may include environmental, genetic and dietary origins. P53 is the most important tumor suppressive gene. P53 exon 6 mutation with protein overexpression is reported in different areas. This study is intended to determine the relationship between P53 exon 6 mutation with protein overxpression and prognosis in colorectal cancer.
Methods and Materials: This study was conducted on 80 cases of Colorectal cancers, admitted to Isfahan hospitals in Isfahan, Iran from 1382 (2003) to 1385(2006). DNA was extracted by phenol chloroform isoamil alcohol at the Genetic Department of the faculty of Medicine. Exon 6 of the P53 gene was amplified using primers in a PCR assay. After gel electrophoresis by SSCP method, exon 6 mutations were determined. P53 protein overexpression was determined in cases by immunohistochemistry. Chi-square test was used for data analysis.
Results: Mutations were observed in 12 cases (15%); in 10 cases, mutations demonstrated protein overexpression as well. No significant relationship was observed between P53 exon 6 mutation and its overexpression (p>0.05).
Conclusion: The study revealed that not all P53 exon 6 mutations were accompanied by P53 overexpression. Therefore, besides immuno histochemistry, we need PCR-SSCP or sequencing for diagnosis.

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