Clinical Significance of Genetic Markers in Colon Cancer

Brief Summary

Detailed Description

OBJECTIVES: * Determine the clinical and pathologic significance of unstable DNA elements in colorectal cancer (tumor microsatellite instability). * Determine the clinical and pathologic significance of loss of heterozygosity for chromosomes 5, 8, 17, and 18 (as the primary targets) and of chromosomes 1, 14, and 22 (as the secondary targets) in colorectal cancer. OUTLINE: DNA is examined for unstable elements (microsatellite instability and loss of heterozygosity) by analyzing at least 10 separate (CA)n-repeats localized to 5 separate chromosomes (5q, 8p, 15, 17p, and 18q). Loss of heterozygosity is analyzed for at least four chromosomal arms (5q, 8p, 17p, and 18q) and later other chromosomes (e.g., 1, 14, and 22). Immunohistochemistry is used to test for the presence or absence of the genes involved in DNA mismatch repair (hMLH1 and hMSH2). Patients do not receive the results of the genetic testing and the results do not influence the type or duration of treatment. PROJECTED ACCRUAL: This study will accrue up to 708 specimens.

Primary Outcomes

Secondary Outcomes

• Determine the clinical and pathologic significance of loss of heterozygosity(Up to 5 years)