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Professional Technical In the Industry Vocabulary Test

MGMT methylation

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

A molecular marker indicating DNA repair gene silencing that predicts favorable response to alkylating chemotherapy in brain tumors.

Full Definition

MGMT methylation refers to the epigenetic silencing of the O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) gene promoter through hypermethylation. MGMT is a DNA repair enzyme that can reverse alkylating damage caused by chemotherapy agents like temozolomide. When the MGMT promoter is methylated, the gene is silenced, making tumor cells more susceptible to alkylating chemotherapy. This biomarker is routinely tested in glioblastoma patients as it predicts improved survival with temozolomide treatment and influences therapeutic decisions.

Usage

Usage note: Always specify 'promoter methylation' for precision; affects treatment recommendations.

In Context

  • "Molecular analysis revealed MGMT methylation, suggesting good response to temozolomide." — Molecular pathology report
  • "The presence of MGMT methylation influenced the decision to proceed with standard chemoradiation." — Treatment planning conference

Also known as

MGMT promoter methylation MGMT hypermethylation

Contrasted with

MGMT unmethylated MGMT intact

Don't confuse with

MGMT mutation MGMT expression MGMT activity
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