Researchers using next -generation DNA sequence have identified four specific genes whose mutations are linked to the growth and evolution of deadly stomach cancers. This could potentially allow doctors to offer targeted treatments that would authorize many patients from unnecessary aggressive procedures, according to a study scheduled for a week’s digestive disease.® (DDW) 2025.
Not all stomach cancers are equal. Today, most gastric cancers are treated in the same way – with surgery and chemotherapy – but we hope to identify basic molecular differences so that we can adapt the treatment to the biology of each patient’s tumor. “
Ulysses Ribeiro, MD, PhD, Head writer and professor of study at Instituto Do Câncer Do Estado de São Paulo in Brazil
The researchers analyzed 21 genes in tumor samples of 87 patients undergoing surgery and chemotherapy for gastric cancer and then followed how mutations are related to survival. About one -third of patients had changes in a particular combination of four genes – BRCA2, CDH1, RHOA and TP53 – and these patients were more likely to experience their cancer or die from the disease. These mutations included both cancer drivers – such as BRCA2 mutations, which are associated with breast and ovarian cancer – as well as previous unknown variants that may be significant.
Dr. Ribeiro said the findings support the idea that a more personalized approach – guided by the genetic makeup of each patient’s tumor – can lead to better results and, for some patients, less aggressive treatment.
To help approach this type of tests closer to daily care, Dr. Ribeiro and his colleagues also work to match these genetic findings with widely available laboratory tests that use immunohistochemistry to detect proteins expressed by genes. This step could make it easier and more accessible to display tumors for high risk features in the future.
The study focused on patients from a western population – a group that has been subjected to gastric cancer study. Most previous studies have been conducted in East Asia, where the disease is more common.
While more research is needed before these findings change medical practice, they offer a very promising way forward, Dr. Ribeiro said. “We believe that these findings move us closer to the most personalized treatment based on the biology of each tumor.”
DDW presentation details
Dr. Ribeiro will present data from the study: “Next -generation DNA sequence identifies physical mutations related to prognosis in patients with gastric cancer,” Summary 152, at 10:24 am. PDT, Saturday May 3rd.
