Genetic Pattern May Predict Severity of Stomach Cancer

Recent research suggests that analyzing a specific combination of four genes—BRCA2, CDH1, RHOA, and TP53—can help predict the potential aggressiveness and survival prospects of stomach cancer. The study examined tumor samples from 87 patients who underwent surgery and chemotherapy, focusing on mutations within 21 genes related to stomach cancer. Findings indicated that roughly one-third of these patients exhibited alterations in this four-gene set, which were associated with a higher risk of death or cancer recurrence.

This genetic profile includes well-known cancer drivers, such as BRCA2 mutations, previously linked to breast and ovarian cancers, as well as novel genetic variants. The researchers aim to develop accessible lab tests to screen tumors for this high-risk pattern, enabling more personalized treatment strategies. Instead of uniform approaches like surgery and chemotherapy for all patients, tailored therapies could improve outcomes by targeting the tumor's specific genetic makeup.

Lead researcher Dr. Ulysses Ribeiro from the São Paulo State Cancer Institute emphasized that these findings are steps toward precision medicine in stomach cancer treatment. He plans to present these insights at the upcoming Digestive Disease Week meeting on May 3. While promising, these results are preliminary until published in peer-reviewed journals. The study underlines the importance of understanding molecular differences in tumors to optimize cancer management.

For additional information, visit the American Cancer Society's overview on stomach cancer. These advancements highlight a move toward more individualized, genetics-based cancer therapies. Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-04-gene-combo-lethality-stomach-cancer.html