Benefits of Testing for the G12D Mutation of the KRAS Gene in Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) in Senegal

Background: The mutation of the KRAS proto-oncogene is frequently detected in various cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This mutation often results in the failure of treatments based on tyrosine kinase receptor inhibitors. The study's objective was to investigate mutations of codon 12 and 13 of the KRAS gene and assess the risk of developing Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Methods: A prospective, cross-sectional, and analytical study was conducted from November 2018 to October 2021 at the biochemistry and molecular biology laboratory of Cheikh Anta Diop University’s Faculty of Medicine. Mutations of codons 12 and 13 were identified using High Resolution Melting and confirmed by sequencing. Hepatic assessments (transaminases, GGT, PAL, bilirubin, and AFP) were performed on all patients, and histopathological analysis was conducted. Results: The study consisted of 34 patients with an average age of 44±3.4 years and a sex ratio of 5.8. There was a predominance in the age group of 36 to 45 years (38.2%). The prevalence of the G12D mutation of the KRAS gene was 23.5% and was more common in subjects over 45 years (n=5; 11.7%). Hepatic impairments were less pronounced in carriers of the G12D mutation of the KRAS gene, albeit not significantly different. Additionally, tumors of grade 3 and type pT3 appeared more linked to the G12D mutation of the KRAS gene, with prevalences of 18.75% (n=3) and 30.8% (n=4), respectively. The relationship between chronic Hepatitis B Virus carriage and the KRAS gene mutation was not significant. Conclusion: Molecular biology significantly contributes to diagnosis and patient management by identifying molecular markers for pre-therapeutic evaluation.