Analysis of BRAF and KRAS mutations in colorectal cancer and rectal carcinogenesis via fluorescent allele-specific PCR.

Abstract

436 Background: Molecular analysis has become increasingly relevant in the evaluation of colorectal carcinomas. Mutations in Ras-MAPK pathway proteins KRAS (present in 30-40% of colorectal cancer) and BRAF (10-14% of colorectal cancer) or mismatch repair (MMR) enzymes can impact response to therapy and/or can assist in defining hereditary predisposition. High frequency microsatellite instability (MSI) in colorectal cancer is associated with improved outcomes. Targeted therapies against BRAF and other components of the Ras-MAPK signaling pathway are becoming important aspects of treatment in colorectal and other cancers. Methods: A retrospective study was performed on 111 paraffin-embedded tumor specimens submitted between 1/07 and 3/09 for MSI testing based on family history and/or histologic features. DNA samples were screened for the BRAF V600E mutation and 7 KRAS mutations in codons 12 and 13 using fluorescent allele specific PCR with capillary electrophoresis. Clinical data was collected via chart review. Results: 58 males and 53 females were studied. The incidence of KRAS and BRAF mutations among the 111 samples was 49.5% and 6.3%, respectively. KRAS G12D and G12V were the most common mutations, representing 57% of total KRAS mutations. Dually positive KRAS and MSI tumors exclusively demonstrated G12D and G13D mutations. KRAS and BRAF mutations were mutually exclusive. Rectal cancers did not show evidence of BRAF V600E mutation (p=0.04). KRAS, BRAF, and MSI status did not correlate with survival, however pre-operative and post-operative carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels were significantly associated with survival both in univariate and multivariate analyses. Conclusions: We demonstrate that BRAF V600E mutation is significantly associated with colon cancer and not rectal cancer, suggesting that BRAF mutations are not relevant in rectal carcinogenesis. Correlation between specific KRAS mutation and outcome may require larger populations. No significant financial relationships to disclose.