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KIF5B-RET fusions in Chinese patients with non-small cell lung cancer

Weijing Cai1, Chunxia Su, Xuefei Li

  • 1Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.

Cancer
|February 5, 2013
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

KIF5B-RET fusions are rare oncogenic drivers in Chinese non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients, found in 1.5% of cases. These fusions were associated with a poorer prognosis, highlighting their clinical significance.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Genetics
  • Pulmonology

Background:

  • RET proto-oncogene (RET) fusions are established oncogenic drivers in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
  • The prevalence and characteristics of RET fusions in Chinese NSCLC patients are not well understood.
  • This study focuses on KIF5B-RET fusions, a specific type of RET fusion.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of KIF5B-RET fusions in Chinese NSCLC patients.
  • To investigate the clinicopathologic characteristics associated with KIF5B-RET fusions.
  • To analyze the prognostic impact of KIF5B-RET fusions on patient survival.

Main Methods:

  • Screening of 392 NSCLC patients for KIF5B-RET fusions using multiplex real-time polymerase chain reaction.
  • Validation of positive samples through direct sequencing.
  • Analysis of the relationship between KIF5B-RET fusions and clinicopathologic features.

Main Results:

  • KIF5B-RET fusions were identified in 6 patients (1.5% prevalence).
  • Fusions were found in adenocarcinoma, malignant neuroendocrine tumors, and squamous cell carcinoma; all positive patients were never-smokers.
  • Patients with KIF5B-RET fusions showed a trend towards poorer prognosis (median survival 21.0 months vs 52.6 months).

Conclusions:

  • KIF5B-RET fusions are rare in Chinese NSCLC patients, occurring in approximately 1.5% of cases.
  • These fusions were more frequent in adenocarcinoma than squamous cell carcinoma and also present in neuroendocrine tumors.
  • Disease stage and younger age (<65) were independent prognostic factors for better survival in NSCLC.

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