OBJECTIVES:
* Determine the CpG island methylation pathway markers that are adverse for survival after treatment with fluorouracil in patients with advanced colorectal adenocarcinoma treated with fluorouracil and oxaliplatin with or without bevacizumab on clinical trial E-3200.
* Compare the methylation results to clinicopathologic and molecular findings and survival.
OUTLINE: This is a multicenter study.
Tissue, blood, and urine samples and genomic DNA samples from tumor tissue blocks are examined by pyrosequencing assay for methylation. Genes examined include MINT1, MINT31, P14, and P16. Microsatellite instability and loss of heterozygosity (LOH) on chromosome 18 (18q LOH) are also assessed. Microsatellites examined include BAT loci, TGFβRII, D2S123, D55346, and D17S250.
PROJECTED ACCRUAL: A total of 350 specimens will be accrued for this study.
