Serum p53 antibodies assay: evaluation in colorectal cancer.

Introduction. - Alterations of the tumor suppressor gene p53 and its protei n synthesis is the most commonly observed genetic feature in human cancers. Direct diagnosis of the gene mutation using sequencing is the gold standar d method. However, it requires advanced technology and is only performed in specialized research units. Current knowledge and key points. - Demonstration of intratumoral p53 prote in accumulation using immunohistochemistry is a routine diagnostic techniqu e. Serum detection of p53 antibodies using ELISA has been recently develope d. II is an easily feasible and reproducible method for the diagnosis of p5 3 alterations due to self-immunization in some patients in response to intr atumoral p53 protein overexpression. This phenomenon is inconstant (about o ne-third of the patients with a p53 gene mutation produce antibodies) and i ts mechanism is unclear, p53 Antibodies are found in 25% of the patients wi th colorectal cancer, independently of traditional tumor markers (carcinoem bryonic antigen and carbohydrate antigen 19.9). The presence of these antib odies is not linked to the tumor stage. Since their ratios vary during the treatment, they might constitute a new tumor marker; Future prospects and projects. - Early appearance of p53 serum antibodies d uring tumor development should make them useful for the detection of malign ant transformation in patients with preneoplastic disease such as ulcerous colititis. Whether the presence of p53 antibodies in colorectal cancer pati ents has a prognostic significance requires further assessment (C) 2000 Edi tions scientifiques ef medicales Elsevier SAS.