Detection of P16 gene methylation by methylation-specific PCR and its clinical significance in lung cancer

To explore the clinical value of methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction on the diagnosis of lung cancer. Methods:56 cases of pathological tissues excised in operation, corresponding bronchoalveolar lavage fluid(BALF) and sputum were obtained from hospitalized patients, among whom,32 cases were lung cancer,24 cases were benign Lung diseases.After DNA extracting and PCR amplifiation,the PCR products were dyed with EB and observed under ultraviolet lamp. Results:Among 32 lung cancer tissues,14 cases(43.8%) showed abnormal methylation in promoter area of p16 gene,9 cases(64.3%) were obtained methylation in corresponding BALF,5 cases(35.8%) in corresponding sputum,while 24 cases of benign lung diseases did not show methylation either in tissues excised in operation or in corresponding BALF and sputum. Conclusion:MSPCR is specific in the detection of abnormal methylation in BALF and sputum of patients with lung cancer; MSPCR is a new and highly potential early diagnostic technique in lung cancer.