Trial Information

Genetic Susceptibility Factors in the Etiology of Neuroblastoma (Also Known as Neuroblastoma Epidemiology in North America [NENA])

OBJECTIVES:

- Evaluate the independent association of common genetic polymorphisms involved in
folate, vitamin A, and related metabolic and transport pathways and the risk of
neuroblastoma (NB) in children who were diagnosed before age 6.

- Evaluate the joint effects of multiple genes on the risk of NB.

- Evaluate the effects of gene-exposure interactions, with primary interest on folate,
vitamin A, and choline intake, on the risk of NB.

- Evaluate genetic effects within NB subgroups defined by age at diagnosis and a
Children's Oncology group classification schema based on age, MYCN oncogene status,
histology, and DNA ploidy.

OUTLINE: This is a multicenter study.

The biologic mother of the patient is asked to complete a Diet History Questionnaire about
diet during pregnancy, and information on demographics, lifestyle factors, medication used
during pregnancy, history of breast feeding, and family history of cancer or birth defects.

Parents are given ORAgene saliva collection kits for self-collection. Saliva bio-specimen
samples are collected from both biologic parents and the patient. Tissue samples previously
stored in a tissue bank are obtained for deceased patients, if available. DNA is extracted
from samples, amplified and analyzed using real-time PCR quantitation assay, and genotyped
using single nucleotide polymorphisms.