[Expression of extraneuronal monoamine transporter gene and DNA repair gene vis-à-vis with antitumor efficacy of SarCNU in human tumor xenografts].

OBJECTIVE

To clarify if there are any correlations between extraneuronal monoamine transmitters (EMT), DNA repair gene expressions and SarCNU antitumor efficacy.

METHODS

EMT, DNA repair gene O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) and excision repair cross-complementing rodent repair deficiency gene (ERCC1-6) expressions in 9 human xenograft tumor models were determined by RT-PCR. The results were compared with the antitumor effects of SarCNU on these tumor xenografts.

RESULTS

Multiple regression analysis revealed significant correlations of SarCNU antitumor activity with different combinations of gene expression. The most significant correlation was observed with all of the 4 genes expressed.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that expression of both EMT and DNA repair genes, specifically, MGMT, ERCC2 and ERCC4, are important determinants of SarCNU activity against human tumors. While DNA repair decreases SarCNU's activity by repairing damaged DNA, EMT appears to enhance its antitumor efficacy.