New Genes Illuminate Breast Cancer Risks
Written by Susi, Arushi Sharma
Recent advancements in genetic research have illuminated a fresh perspective on the risks associated with breast cancer. Emerging genes have come into the spotlight, offering a deeper understanding of the intricate genetic landscape underlying this complex disease.
Four new genes linked to breast cancer have recently been discovered by scientists, which could aid in identifying women at higher risk for the disease.
The study, published in Nature Genetics, sheds light on the biological mechanisms underlying cancer development, potentially leading to new treatment options.
The international team, led by researchers from the Universities of Cambridge and Laval, emphasized that existing genetic tests only cover a small number of breast cancer-related genes, such as BRCA1, BRCA2, and PALB2.
The study, which included 26,000 women with breast cancer and 217,000 without, looked at genetic changes in all genes in eight European and Asian countries.
Professor Douglas Easton, from the University of Cambridge, who co-led the study said, “To our knowledge, this is the largest study of its kind.”
“It was made possible through the use of data from multiple collaborators in many countries, as well as publicly available data from the UK Biobank,” Easton said in a statement.
Researchers discovered at least four new genes associated with breast cancer risk, with the possibility of more.
These genes will improve understanding and identification of high-risk women, thereby improving risk prediction.
The findings will help to improve breast screening, risk management, and treatment.
The ultimate goal is to incorporate this knowledge into a global risk prediction tool that healthcare professionals can use.
Professor Jacques Simard of Universita Laval, co-lead of the study said, “Improving genetic counselling for high-risk women will promote shared decision-making regarding risk reduction strategies, screening and determination of treatment options.”
“Although most of the variants identified in these new genes are rare, the risks can be significant for women who carry them. For example, alterations in one of the new genes, MAP3K1, appear to give rise to a particularly high risk of breast cancer,” Simard said.
“We need additional data to determine more precisely the risks of cancer associated with variants in these genes, to study the characteristics of the tumours, and to understand how these genetic effects combine with other lifestyle factors affecting breast cancer risks,” Easton added.