Clinical Gastroenterology Vol.24 No.2(2)

Theme Molecular Medicine of Gastrointestinal Disorders : from Basics to Applications
Title Genetic Instability in Association with Gastrointestinal Diseases
Publish Date 2009/02
Author Tadateru Maehata Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine Hospital
Author Hiroyuki Yamamoto First Department of Internal Medicine, Sapporo Medical University
Author Keiichi Hizaki First Department of Internal Medicine, Sapporo Medical University
Author Yasuhisa Shinomura First Department of Internal Medicine, Sapporo Medical University
Author Fumio Itoh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine Hospital
[ Summary ] Genetic instability, which is characterized by aneuploidly, multiple chromosomal rearrangement, and an accumulation of somatic mutations, has been extensively studied in gastrointestinal diseases. Genetic instability plays a major role in gastrointestinal carcinogenesis. The two known genetic instabilities are chromosomal instability (CIN) and microsatellite instability (MSI). From a clincal viewpoint, concerning prognosis and sensitivity for chemotherapy, it is important to distinguish between these types of instability. We describe molecular alterations, including epigenetic abnormalities in genetic pathways in relation to carcinogenesis.
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