NRAS/KRAS Mutations

Description: 
Ras genes code for small membrane-bound proteins (p21’ı) that bind and hydrolyze GTP. They participate, through a cascade of protein kinases, in transmitting signals into the nucleus. Activating point mutations, in genes of the ras gene family, that convert these proto-oncogenes into their transforming forms are well documented to occur in many human tumours. Mutations in the critical codons 12, 13 and 61 activate the oncoprotein and lead to oncogenic transformation.

The assay is for the detection of point mutations in the Ras gene in codons 12, 13 and 61 in patients with solid tumours.
Clinical details: 
Patients with a mutation in KRAS/NRAS may not respond to treatment with anti EGFR Antibody therapy. KRAS/NRAS mutations potentially confers lack of response to anti EGFR-antibody therapy in Colorectal cancer.
Reference range: 

Tissue

Synonyms or keywords: 
Colorectal cancer, anti EGFR-antibody therapy and c-Ki-ras-2 (K-ras) oncogene.
Department: 
Location: 
Sample type and Volume required: 
Paraffin embedded curls/fresh tissue.
Turnaround time: 
5 days
Storage and transport: 
Room temperature. Paraffin embedded tissue blocks should be sent to Histopathology for curls to be cut.
Contacts:
Molecular Oncology Unit at Guy's
020 7188 1716
viapath.OncologyDutyScientist@nhs.net
Genetics Department
Southwark Wing - 4th Floor
Guy's Hospital
Great Maze Pond
London SE1 9RT

For clinical advice or interpretation of results, please contact the laboratory in the first instance.

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Last updated: 07/08/2015