Clinical Research Directory

Lynch Syndrome X-Talk of Enteral Mucosa With Immune System

Lynch syndrome (OMIM #120435) is the most common dominantly inherited colorectal cancer syndrome with an estimated prevalence of 1:270 individuals. It increases the lifetime risk of colorectal and endometrial cancer primarily, but it is associated with a high risk of other cancers (pancreas, stomach, ovarian, central nervous system, skin, among others). It is caused by a germline mutation in one of four DNA mismatch repair genes or a terminal deletion of the MSH2-adjacent gene EpCAM. Despite adherence to cancer surveillance programs, many patients still develop colorectal cancer and endometrial cancer. The Prospective Lynch Syndrome Database (PLSD) suggests that more frequent surveillance intervals do not significantly improve cancer risk reduction. The PLSD also revealed that the incidence of colorectal cancer in MLH1 and MSH2 carriers was even higher than previously expected, reaching as high as 41-36% among MLH1 carriers, regardless of ethnic background. The development of colorectal cancer despite surveillance is an unresolved question. Therefore, there is an unmet need for effective cancer prevention strategies.

Pancreatic Cancer Early Detection Program

Early detection testing is recommended for individuals at elevated risk for the development of Pancreatic Cancer. This Protocol will define sufficiently elevated risk as either equal to or greater than five times the general population risk, or five times the average risk (1.5%) of developing pancreatic cancer by age 70; that is a 7.5% lifetime risk. Our inclusion criteria has a strong focus on the risk for pancreatic cancer imparted by the presence of hereditary cancer genes, as well as by family history. Enrolled subjects will undergo Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) alternating with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), every six to 12 months, for up to 5 years.