Genes pose a cancer risk

LONDON: British scientists have discovered a “treasure trove” of 110 genes which raise the risk of breast cancer.

The study, the most comprehensive investigation ever conducted into the genetics of breast cancer, used pioneering techniques to create maps of a woman’s DNA.

Previously researchers knew of only a few genetic mutations which raise breast cancer risk. The most famous – the BRCA mutation, carried by Angelina Jolie – was discovered in London and Cambridge more than 20 years ago, paving the way to tailor drugs to genetics.

The researchers work was published in the Nature Communications journal.

Study leader Dr Olivia Fletcher said: “Our study took high-level maps of breast cancer risk regions and used them to pull out specific genes seemingly associated with the disease.”

Professor Paul Workman, of the Institute of Cancer Research, added: “This study brings these regions of DNA into focus, uncovering a treasure trove of genes that can now be investigated in more detail.” – Daily Mail