DNA methylation analysis of secreted frizzled-related protein 2 gene for the early detection of colorectal cancer in fecal DNA.

Abstract

Background:The early detection of colorectal cancer (CRC) with high sensitivity screening is essential for the reduction of cancer-specific mortality. Abnormally methylated genes that are responsible for the pathogenesis of cancers can be used as biomarkers for the detection of CRC. The methylation status of the secreted frizzled-related protein 2 (SFRP2) gene was evaluated for their use as a marker in the noninvasive detection of CRC.Materials and Methods:Methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction was performed to analyze the promoter CpG methylation of SFRP2 in the fecal DNA of 25 patients with CRC and 25 individuals exhibiting normal colonoscopy results.Results:Promoter methylation levels of SFRP2 in CRC patients and in healthy controls were 60% and 8%, respectively. Methylation of the SFRP2 promoter in fecal DNA is associated with the presence of colorectal tumors.Conclusion:Hence, the detection of aberrantly methylated DNA in fecal samples may present a promising, noninvasive screening method for CRC.