This assay is performed on tumor tissue to detect hypermethylation of the MLH1 gene promoter. Bisulfite modification of tumor DNA and real-time PCR are used to quantify CpG methylation within the promoter. Percentage of methylated DNA (compared to total DNA) is reported for positive results. Analysis should be considered in combination with IHC, BRAF, and/or MSI.
MLH1 promoter methylation analysis is useful to distinguish sporadic from inherited colorectal and endometrial cancers in tumors that are MLH1-deficient by IHC staining and/or have high levels of microsatellite instability (MSI-H). The majority of MSI in sporadic cases of these tumors is caused by MLH1 promoter hypermethylation, while hypermethylation is rare in inherited cases. MLH1 promoter methylation analysis results should be considered with other clinical risk factors in determination of likelihood of HNPCC/Lynch Syndrome.
- FFPE solid tumor tissue: Paraffin block is preferred. Alternatively, send 1 H&E slide plus 5-10 unstained slides cut at 5 or more microns. Please use positively-charged slides and 10% NBF fixative. Do not use zinc fixatives.
Use cold pack for transport, making sure cold pack is not in direct contact with specimen.
10 days