Methylation of the GSTP1 gene promotor in colorectal cancer

Abstract

Background: Transcriptional silencing of tumor suppressor genes and tumor related genes like GSTP1 by methylation of promotor region CpG island is believed to be an important mechanism in tumorigenesis. The GSTP1 gene encodes the enzyme glutathione S-transferase Pi which defends the cells against oxidative damage and electrophilic carcinogens.