MGMT plays a pivotal role in cancer because of its ability to repair mutations caused by alkylating agents, which are commonly found in both environmental carcinogens and chemotherapeutic drugs. High levels of MGMT can confer resistance to alkylating chemotherapeutic agents, making cancer treatment less effective. Conversely, low MGMT activity might make cancer cells more susceptible to these treatments but can also lead to an increased risk of mutations that drive cancer progression.
