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Tumors of the Central Nervous System, Volume 2 pp 73–79Cite as

Glioblastoma Patients: Role of Methylated MGMT

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Part of the book series: Tumors of the Central Nervous System ((TCNS,volume 2))

Abstract

The O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) protein is a DNA repair enzyme that antagonizes the anti-tumor effects of alkylating agents, particularly temozolomide. Consistent with this mechanism of action, MGMT silencing by gene promoter methylation has been shown to be both predictive and prognostic in clinical trials of newly diagnosed glioblastoma patients treated with temozolomide in combination with radiotherapy and as adjuvant treatment. However, assessment of methylation of the MGMT gene promoter still requires standardization and prospective validation in clinical trials in order to best define the role of this biomarker for individualization of treatment. Nevertheless, even patients with temozolomide-sensitive glioblastoma cannot avoid eventual recurrence. Moreover, the optimal treatment strategy for patients with tumors lacking methylation of the MGMT gene promoter has yet to be determined. Here, we discuss the predictive and prognostic value of MGMT silencing, focusing on the importance of standardizing MGMT assessment as a crucial prerequisite for achieving personalization of treatment according to MGMT status in the next future.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Medical Oncology, Regina Elena National Cancer Center Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy

    Giulio Metro & Alessandra Fabi

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  1. Giulio Metro
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  2. Alessandra Fabi
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Correspondence to Alessandra Fabi .

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  1. , Kean University, Room 213, Library building, Morris Avenue 1000, Union, 07083, New Jersey, USA

    M.A. Hayat

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Metro, G., Fabi, A. (2011). Glioblastoma Patients: Role of Methylated MGMT. In: Hayat, M. (eds) Tumors of the Central Nervous System, Volume 2. Tumors of the Central Nervous System, vol 2. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-007-0618-7_9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-007-0618-7_9

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