A systematic literature review of MTAP deletions in solid and hematologic Cancers

Mary C Clouser1, Mina Suh2, Naimisha Movva2

  • 1Amgen, Thousand Oaks, CA, USA.

Abstract

Insights

Methylthioadenosine phosphorylase (MTAP) deficiency is found in many cancers, showing potential as a pan-cancer therapeutic target. This review details MTAP loss prevalence and its prognostic impact across various cancer types.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cancer Genomics

Background:

  • Methylthioadenosine phosphorylase (MTAP) deficiency is prevalent in numerous cancers.
  • MTAP status is an emerging biomarker for synthetic lethality strategies, particularly with PRMT5 inhibition.
  • Understanding MTAP alterations is crucial for developing novel pan-cancer therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review the literature on MTAP deletions or loss of expression in adult and pediatric solid and hematologic cancers.
  • To summarize the prevalence and prognostic impact of MTAP alterations.
  • To identify MTAP as a potential pan-cancer therapeutic target.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic literature review adhering to PRISMA methodology.
  • Inclusion of studies reporting on MTAP deletion or loss across various cancer types.
  • Synthesis of data on prevalence, laboratory testing, patient characteristics, and clinical outcomes.

Main Results:

  • 37 studies reporting on MTAP were identified from 352 initial studies.
  • Next-generation sequencing (NGS) was the most common testing method.
  • MTAP deletion prevalence varied significantly by tumor type, ranging from 4%-14% in gastric cancer to 26%-60% in glioblastoma.
  • MTAP deletion was associated with a higher prevalence of KRAS mutations.
  • Evidence suggests potential for worse overall survival in patients with MTAP deletions, particularly in GBM and NSCLC, though findings were heterogeneous.

Conclusions:

  • This is the first systematic review to consolidate findings on MTAP deletions/loss across diverse cancer types.
  • MTAP deletions and/or loss of expression are common in many cancers.
  • MTAP alterations represent a promising target for developing pan-cancer therapies.

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