Identifies a DNA repair enzyme that is associated with the DNA-alkylating therapies employed in the treatment of gliomas. Methylation or hypermethylation of the MGMT gene promoter down-regulates or inactivates the normal DNA-repair function of the MGMT enzyme, which can make tumors more susceptible to radiation or alkylating agent-based therapy. Testing is particularly useful in gliomas, as glioblastoma patients have shown improved survival when treated with radiation and temozolomide over patients with non-methylated tumors. Methylation has also been associated with improved survival in anaplastic gliomas, regardless of treatment. MGMT methylation has also been reported in other tumors including colorectal, lung, and lymphoma.
FFPE solid tumor tissue: Paraffin block is preferred. Alternatively, send 1 H&E slide plus 5-10 unstained slides cut at 5 or more microns. Please use positively-charged slides and 10% NBF fixative. Do not use zinc fixatives. A minimum of 40% tumor is required. If the tumor cannot be enriched to at least 40%, then testing will not be performed.
Use cold pack for transporting block during summer to prevent block from melting. Slides can be packed at room temperature.