DNA METHYLATION IN BREAST CANCER

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The recent cloning of the breast cancer predisposition gene, BRCA1 had an unexpected consequence. Whereas mutations were found in affected individuals from families showing a predisposition to breast and ovarian cancer, mutations were not identified in breast cancers from individuals with no family history. We have identified a type of change called an epigenetic change affecting BRCA1 in breast and ovarian cancers. Epigenetic changes are mechanisms which act at a gene without causing mutations but nevertheless have the stability of genetic change. We plan to examine breast tumours for further epigenetic changes. This project has important implications for our understanding of the development of breast cancer. This new understanding may in turn suggest new strategies for the treatment of breast cancer.