ROCHESTER, Minn. — Mayo Clinic researchers have discovered a genetic factor that may explain why some colorectal cancer patients experience severe liver damage after chemotherapy.
This finding could impact treatment strategies for patients with colorectal liver metastases. Patrick Starlinger, M.D., Ph.D., a surgeon at Mayo Clinic, said the study is the first to show a genetic predisposition influences how the liver tolerates chemotherapy.
The research examined 551 patients who underwent chemotherapy followed by surgery, identifying a specific PNPLA3 gene variant linked to liver injury. Doctors say this variant is prevalent worldwide but varies among populations, being more common in individuals of Asian or Latin American descent.
This genetic insight may clarify why previous studies have shown varied results regarding chemotherapy’s benefits before and after surgery.
Dr. Starlinger emphasized that a blood test for the PNPLA3 variant, combined with monitoring liver health, could help identify patients at higher risk for liver damage. “These findings offer us insight into how we can adjust treatment strategies to best manage the care for patients diagnosed with colorectal liver metastases,” Starlinger said, noting the potential to personalize treatment to minimize chemotherapy’s risks.