ROCHESTER, Minn. — Mayo Clinic researchers have discovered a genetic factor that may explain why some colorectal cancer patients experience severe liver damage after chemotherapy.

This finding could impact treatment strategies for patients with colorectal liver metastases. Patrick Starlinger, M.D., Ph.D., a surgeon at Mayo Clinic, said the study is the first to show a genetic predisposition influences how the liver tolerates chemotherapy.

The research examined 551 patients who underwent chemotherapy followed by surgery, identifying a specific PNPLA3 gene variant linked to liver injury. Doctors say this variant is prevalent worldwide but varies among populations, being more common in individuals of Asian or Latin American descent.

This genetic insight may clarify why previous studies

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