DNA scientists map origins of cancer
Scientists have produced a comprehensive catalogue of DNA signatures of mutations that cause the most common cancers in humans, and identified some of the biological processes involved.
They believe their findings will greatly increase understanding of cancer and make a major contribution to preventing and treating the disease.
Cancer happens when mutations in the DNA of cells disrupt normal growth and functioning causing them to form tumors. And while many triggers of genetic mutation are understood - chemicals in tobacco smoke, for example, can cause lung cancer, and ultraviolet radiation can lead to skin cancer - scientists do not know much about the biology of how such exposure actually produces the genetic damage.
Now a large international group of researchers has studied nearly 5 million mutations in over 7,000 cancers and traced 20 DNA-damaging processes that explain nearly all the mutations in 30 of the most common cancers.
In many cases they also pinpointed the underlying biological process responsible.
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/264843.php
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