Cells throughout the body carry a gene called GNAS. This is a complex gene because it produces several types of proteins and RNAs. The gene produces a signaling protein that works like a switch. When the GNAS protein receives a signal from the surface of a cell, it then relays a signal within the cell.
When GNAS gets mutated, the “switch” stays on. This can impact cell growth, metabolism, and how patients respond to treatment. The GNAS mutation is known to drive cancer growth, especially in cancers and pathways with mucin—a jelly-like substance that’s a part of mucus.
GNAS mutations are commonly found in appendix cancer and have also been found in certain types of pancreatic, gastric, colon, and rectal cancers.
GNAS mutations are often found alongside KRAS mutations.
Biomarker testing is most often run on tumor samples to determine if there’s a mutation in the GNAS gene. If so, there may be emerging clinical trials to consider.
Your treatment plan will be unique and dependent on several factors.
Ask your doctor how your biomarker test results are informing your treatment plan and if you qualify for any clinical trials.
