What Does MSI Stand For?
MSI stands for Microsatellite Instability
Microsatellite Instability (MSI) refers to the phenomenon of genetic hypermutability that occurs in certain types of cancer due to a deficiency in the DNA mismatch repair (MMR) system. It is characterized by the variation in the length of microsatellites—short, repetitive sequences of DNA—resulting from failures in the repair mechanisms that normally correct errors during DNA replication. MSI is a crucial biomarker in oncology, particularly in assessing the prognosis and guiding treatment decisions for colorectal and other tumors, including the potential response to immunotherapy.
Added on 14th April 2008 | Last edited on 16th June 2025 | Edit Acronym