Sean Grimm, MD, Assistant Professor, Neurology, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, describes using O(6)-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) as a temozolomide (Temodar) predictive marker for patients with brain tumors. Tumors with high levels of MGMT are resistant to alkylating chemotherapy while low levels are susceptible.

Accurate prediction using MGMT requires the consideration of the promoter gene's methylation. Retrospective studies found that methylated MGMT correlated to lower levels of the MGMT enzyme and were more responsive to temozolomide than non-methylated. Radiation therapy also showed improved efficacy in methylated MGMT patients.

The broad response demonstrated by methylated MGMT may indicate the gene is more than a predictive marker for temozolomide but may be a marker of overall response to treatment.

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Dr. Sean Grimm from Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine on MGMT as a Predictive Marker in Brain Cancer

Dr. Grimm on the Brain Cancer Predictive Marker MGMT

Sean Grimm, MD, Assistant Professor, Neurology, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, explains two of the primary brain cancer risk factors.

The first factor is a genetic syndrome that is associated with the occurrence of brain tumors and other cancers. In some cases this genetic disorder is hereditary.

High exposure to radiation can cause the growth of brain tumors. Patients that receive high amounts of radiation to treat childhood cancer have an increased risk of developing brain cancer later in life. Nuclear disasters such as Chernobyl in Russia and Fukushima in Japan are also associated with higher occurrences of brain cancer.

Dr. Grimm from Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine Discusses Brain Cancer Risk Factors

Sean Grimm, MD

Articles

Dr. Grimm on the Brain Cancer Predictive Marker MGMT

Dr. Grimm Discusses Primary Brain Cancer Risk Factors