[Telomerase activity and genomic instability in colorectal cancers]

In this study, we investigated the correlation between the telomerase activity and the microsatellite instability in colorectal cancers and adenomas. Telomerase activity was detected in 75% of cancers and in 33% of adenomas. Microsatellite instability was detected in 24% of sporadic cancers, in 54% of multiple cancers, and in 22% of adenomas. Telomerase activity and microsatellite instability were independent events in colorectal carcinogenesis. The patients with telomerase activity and microsatellite instability showed poor prognosis. These results indicate that colorectal cancers with both telomerase activity and microsatellite instability may have more malignant potential, and adenomas with both them may be more intensive precursor of colorectal cancers.