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Professional Technical IVT

MGMT promoter methylation

Also written as: MGMT — O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase

Epigenetic silencing of the DNA repair gene MGMT, predictive of alkylating agent chemotherapy response.

Full Definition

MGMT promoter methylation refers to the hypermethylation of the O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase gene promoter, resulting in reduced MGMT protein expression and impaired DNA repair capacity. This epigenetic modification is found in approximately 40-45% of glioblastomas and predicts favorable response to alkylating chemotherapy agents such as temozolomide. MGMT methylation status is now routinely assessed in glioblastoma patients to guide treatment decisions and provide prognostic information.

Usage

Usage note: Specify 'promoter methylation' to distinguish from other MGMT alterations.

In Context

  • "MGMT promoter methylation was detected by pyrosequencing analysis." — Molecular pathology report
  • "The patient's favorable response to temozolomide correlates with MGMT promoter methylation status." — Clinical correlation

Also known as

MGMT hypermethylation

Contrasted with

MGMT unmethylated

Don't confuse with

MGMT expression MGMT mutation
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