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Updates in Chemoprevention Research for Hereditary Gastrointestinal and Polyposis Syndromes

  • Genetics in Gastroenterology Practice (B Katona, Section Editor)
  • Published:
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A Correction to this article was published on 08 February 2021

This article has been updated

Abstract

Purpose of review

To critically examine recently published research in the area of chemoprevention in hereditary polyposis and gastrointestinal cancers, and to briefly review several ongoing chemoprevention trials testing novel agents in this population.

Recent findings

Four recent chemoprevention trials in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) were identified and reviewed. In the FAPEST trial, the combination of erlotinib + sulindac (compared to placebo) met its primary outcome of decreased duodenal polyp burden. A secondary analysis of lower gastrointestinal tract outcomes also demonstrated significant benefits. Two randomized trials in FAP patients examining combination regimens (celecoxib + DFMO and sulindac + DFMO) failed to meet their primary endpoints. Benefits of further research into these combinations were suggested by efficacy signals seen in secondary and post hoc analyses. Finally, a randomized trial found curcumin (versus placebo) to have no benefit in reducing colorectal polyp count or size in patients with FAP.

Summary

Progress in developing new and more effective preventive options for patients with hereditary gastrointestinal syndromes continues to be made through the efforts of investigators conducting chemoprevention research.

Trial registration

NCT02961374, NCT03333265, NCT03649971, NCT04296851, NCT03806426, NCT04230499, NCT01725490, CaPP3 trial, NCT02813824, NCT03831698, NCT04379999, NCT02052908

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  1. Department of Clinical Genetics, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA

    Michael J Hall MD, MS

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Hall, M.J. Updates in Chemoprevention Research for Hereditary Gastrointestinal and Polyposis Syndromes. Curr Treat Options Gastro 19, 30–46 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11938-020-00306-x

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