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Decoding Genetic Mysteries Of Cancer

Cancer is a disease of uncontrolled cell growth, often triggered by genetic alterations. The intricate network of genes, both oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes, plays a critical role in maintaining the delicate balance within the cellular environment. Mutations, whether inherited or acquired over time due to environmental factors, can disrupt this balance and lead to the initiation of cancer cell production and growth. Some individuals carry genetic variations that predispose them to certain types of cancer. Hereditary forms of cancer, such as breast, ovarian, and colorectal cancers, have been linked to specific gene mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2. Understanding these genetic predispositions…

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 Why the causes of cancer are more than just random ‘bad luck’

DNA replication has evolved to be incredibly efficient and reliable, but random mistakes (mutations) occasionally happen. Still, they occur at a rate of less than once per genome per cell division, thanks to some impressive molecular proofreading machines, which constantly survey the newly copied DNA and correct errors. But with so many cells dividing so often, DNA replication still represents a major source of mutations. And every cell division increases the chance of accumulating mutations in important genes, increasing the likelihood of cancer.

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Few People with Cancer Undergo Testing for Inherited Gene Mutations

Although the study could not account for why germline testing rates remain low, Drs. Stadler and Schrag explained that both health care system related issues, such as limited access to genetic counselors, and patient-level factors, such as uncertainty or mistrust of genetic testing, are likely both key contributors.

Genes by Cancer Types

Inherited mutations have been linked to many different types of mutations. Some types of cancer are more likely to be hereditary.

Genetic secrets of almost 2,700 cancers unveiled by landmark international project

The results, published in a landmark collection of research papers in the journal Nature interpret the complete DNA sequences, or cancer genomes, of 2,658 cancer samples. This will further our understanding of the crucial “driver” mutations that underpin cancer development and offer potential as targets for treatments such as chemotherapy.

Genetic Testing: Would You Want To Know If You Were Going To Get Cancer?

But knowledge can also be crippling and I just don't know how much I want to know. Because once you go down that road how do you get back? And if there's nothing you can do to avoid that inevitable diagnosis, what's the point? (All that said, if someone offered me such a test today, I don't know that I could resist.

Genetics and Cancer Risk: Real-World Benefits of Genetic Testing

As the genetic aspects of cancer continue to be elucidated, genetic testing’s role in cancer care continues to expand. This growth represents an important step forward for the treatment of people who are predisposed to cancer, as genetic testing and identification of genetic mutations provide the opportunity for referral of these individuals to cancer screening and risk-reduction strategies that can reduce cancer incidence and mortality.

Genetics may help explain Black men’s high prostate cancer risk, say scientists

Researchers find mutations that are more common in men with African ancestry after DNA analysis

Here’s How Well Your Genes Can Predict Your Breast Cancer Risk

Your genes have a lot to say about who you are and how healthy you are. But for certain diseases, including cancer, so many genes are likely involved that it’s hard for doctors to come up with a useful, reliable way to turn your DNA information into a precise risk score.

If you have a genetic predisposition to cancer, it’s better to know about it

People with a strong family history of cancer – especially if many members of their family have been diagnosed with cancer, especially at a young age – may be carrying one of these genes. That is why it is important for everyone to find out their family’s cancer history. It may be difficult to broach the subject with relatives, but talking about cancer among families has the power to prevent later problems, improve access to early treatment and raise awareness. Families with a high incidence of breast and ovarian cancers are one example.

Testing your genes for cancer risk is way cheaper now — and it could save your life

Experts say that millions of people in the U.S. are walking around with a genetic variant that raises their risk of developing cancer. The vast majority of them have no clue. That's a problem, because people who know they're at a higher risk for certain cancers can take action, like going for more frequent screening tests such as colonoscopies and mammograms or even having preventive surgeries. A simple, relatively inexpensive blood test can now check dozens of genes associated with different kinds of cancers — cancers of the breast, ovaries, colon, pancreas, stomach, prostate and more.

The Genetics of Cancer

Yes, cancer is a genetic disease. It is caused by changes in genes that control the way cells grow and multiply. Cells are the building blocks of your body. Each cell has a copy of your genes, which act like an instruction manual.

The Genetics of Cancer Risk

The following article will review recent discoveries in the genetic basis of inherited cancer risk and how these discoveries inform cancer biology and patient management. While this article focuses on prostate cancer, the principles are generic for any cancer and, indeed, for any trait.

The Unbearably Slow Adoption of Genetic Cancer Tests

Discovering genes that increase the risk of tumors is one thing—but actually using that knowledge to help people is another.

This Breast Cancer Gene Is Less Well Known, but Nearly as Dangerous

PALB2 is not as well known as BRCA, but mutations of the gene can raise a woman’s risk for breast cancer almost as much.

What’s the Point of Finding Cancer Mutations?

Serious question. There are very few drugs to fight them.