Lung cancer is the main cause of cancer related death in America according to the American Cancer Society. Although it has been identified that environmental factors such as tobacco smoke have a great impact on the development of Lung cancer, it has also been identified that there is a major genetic component as well. Cancer cell biologists at the University of Cincinnati have recognized a gene which has been linked to the susceptibility and development of lung cancers. This gene known as the RGS17 gene has been found through a family-based study of individuals who have developed lung cancer and have a previous family history of the disease.
In this study undertaken by Marshall Anderson (PhD) and his team, they identified a region in a chromosome that contained about 100 genes, including the RGS17 gene which was suspected to be involved in the prevalence and growth of cancers. Experiments were then conducted using this gene on mice models. It was found that when this gene was suppressed lung tumours shrank, providing evidence that this gene plays a vital role in tumour suppression and cell growth. Researchers believe that using this gene to create a genetic test or screening could help doctors identify individuals who are likely to develop lung cancer and this target this before progression of the disease.
References
Medical News Today. (2009) Specific Lung Cancer Susceptibility Gene Identified By Researchers. (Internet). Available from: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/146305.php (Accessed 22 April 2009).
Danica Lind
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