Study: Breast, Ovarian Cancer Drug May Have Utility in Treating Colorectal Cancer

A new study from the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center suggests a class of drugs that has shown promise for breast and ovarian cancer patients with BRCA gene mutations may also benefit certain colorectal cancer patients, according to a U-M Health news report.

The class of drugs, called PARP inhibitors, fights against tumors with a specific mutation in the MRE11 gene. Approximately 15 percent of colorectal cancers have microsatellite instability, which is an error in the DNA. A large majority of these tumors have the MRE11 gene mutation, suggesting a broader application of PARP inhibitors.

Researchers found PARP inhibitors were even more effective when there are two copies of the MRE11 gene mutation. They are planning to launch a phase 1 clinical trial to test the utility of PARP inhibitors in colorectal cancer patients with two mutated copies of MRE11.

Read the U-M Health release about PARP inhibitors in colorectal cancer.

Related articles on colorectal cancer:

Office Desk Jobs Double Colon Cancer Risk
Local Washington Health Board Reverses Approval of Colonoscopy Campaign
Coverage of Preventive Services Under New Healthcare Law Causing Confusion

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