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DNA polymerase beta gene mutation in human prostate cancer
Y Dobashi1, T Shuin, H Tsuruga
1Department of Urology, Yokohama City University School of Medicine, Kanagawa, Japan.
Cancer Research
|June 1, 1994
Summary
Mutations in the DNA polymerase beta gene were found in 17% of prostate cancer cases. These genetic alterations may play a role in the development of some human prostate cancers.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
- Genetics
Background:
- DNA polymerase beta is crucial for DNA repair in mammals.
- Mutations in this gene are frequent in colorectal cancers.
- The role of DNA polymerase beta in prostate cancer is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the molecular basis of human prostate cancer tumorigenesis.
- To examine mutations in the DNA polymerase beta gene in prostate cancer tissues.
Main Methods:
- Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
- Single-strand conformational polymorphism (SSCP) analysis of RNA
- DNA sequencing analysis
Main Results:
- DNA polymerase beta gene mutations were detected in 2 out of 12 (17%) prostate cancer cases.
- Specific mutations included nucleotide substitutions, deletions, and insertions.
- Mutated cases were advanced in grade and stage.
Conclusions:
- DNA polymerase beta gene mutations are involved in a subset of human prostate cancers.
- These mutations may contribute to prostate carcinogenesis.
- Further research is needed to understand the precise role of these mutations.