Oncology
Article Abstract:
The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is being used to analyse p53 mutations in the tissues surrounding a tumor that has been removed. These so-called margins are usually examined for cancer cells under a microscope. In a study of patients who had negative margins, PCR analysis found cancer cells in half. Thirty-eight percent of those whose margins were PCR-positive had a recurrence but none of those with PCR-negative margins had a recurrence. Analyzing microsatellite DNA in urine samples can also identify people who have undiagnosed bladder cancer. Several naturally occurring chemicals have been discovered that regulate the cell cycle. A disruption of their function can cause cancer, which is essentially abnormal cell growth. Researchers have put genes for drug resistance in blood cells to protect them from the toxic effects of chemotherapy. Another use of gene therapy is to sensitize tumors to drugs by injecting them with the gene for an enzyme that will convert a harmless substance into an anti-cancer drug.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1996
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A 40-Year-Old Woman With a Strong Family History of Breast Cancer
Article Abstract:
The case of a 40-year-old woman with a family history of breast cancer is reported to illustrate the difficulties in managing such patients. Mutations in two genes, BRCA1 and BRCA2, have been identified. However, only 5% of breast cancer is thought to be caused by these mutations. It is very difficult to identify the mutations and most testing is performed by one laboratory. However, certain features can place a woman at high risk of a gene mutation. These include early age at breast cancer diagnosis, multifocal or bilateral disease, and breast and ovarian cancers as multiple primary cancers in a single family member.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1999
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Oncology and hematology
Article Abstract:
The breast cancer susceptibility gene, BRCA1, is possibly a tumor suppressor, so that the loss of both gene copies would predispose a person to cancer. The gene may be DNA binding and function as a transcriptor. BRCA1 kindred members will be tested to evaluate whether they have a mutant copy of the gene. Polypeptide growth factors in the progression of cancer are being studied. The use of antibodies as antagonists rather than immune effector mechanisms is also being reviewed. Suramin, which inhibits fibroblast growth, has been shown to produce antitumor effects, but it is considerably toxic.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1995
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