MGMT Methylation
Also written as: MGMT — O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase methylation
Epigenetic silencing of the DNA repair gene MGMT through promoter hypermethylation, predictive of alkylating agent chemotherapy response.
Full Definition
The hypermethylation of cytosine-guanine dinucleotides (CpG islands) in the promoter region of the O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) gene, resulting in transcriptional silencing of this DNA repair protein. MGMT methylation status is particularly important in glioblastoma management as methylated MGMT promoters predict enhanced sensitivity to alkylating chemotherapy agents like temozolomide. Tumors with methylated MGMT promoters have deficient DNA repair capability, making them more susceptible to DNA-damaging therapies. Testing for MGMT promoter methylation is standard practice in glioblastoma diagnosis and influences treatment decisions. The methylation status can be assessed through various methods including methylation-specific PCR and pyrosequencing.
In Context
- "MGMT methylation analysis showed promoter hypermethylation consistent with temozolomide sensitivity." — Molecular pathology report
- "Patients with MGMT methylation demonstrated superior overall survival in the treatment arm." — Clinical trial publication