Scientists crack cancer gene code

BRITISH scientists have made medical history by cracking the cancer gene code for two of the most common killers, revolutionising cancer treatments of the future.

Scientists crack cancer gene code Scientists crack cancer gene code

In a breakthrough described as a “fundamental moment in cancer research” scientists have shown which subtle changes to cells can go on to cause lung and skin cancer.

They have created a “map” which details every tiny change to DNA that takes place in the cells of those who develop the disease.

It means that within a few years cancer patients could be given a blood test to reveal their own cancer “map” which would show doctors which drugs might work best.

Lead researcher Professor Mike Stratton, from the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute’s Cancer Genome Project, said: “What we are seeing will transform the way we see cancer. This is a fundamental moment in cancer research.”

The findings showed that there are 23,000 mutations in the lung cancer DNA code, which were largely caused by cigarette smoke.

The researchers believe each mutation occurs after about 15 cigarettes. Although some mutations do no harm, the team believes a build up of 20,000 mutations can trigger lung cancer.

The picture is so detailed they have even managed to create a breakdown of the damage to DNA caused by the 60,000 chemicals in cigarettes and by other environmental factors. It is the first time experts have known which parts of our genes are damaged and therefore which drugs could help prevent this from happening.

Lung cancer is the most fatal cancer, with only a fraction of those diagnosed alive five years later. This is because the disease is hard to catch early – when doctors discover tumours they are already 80 per cent of the size they will be when they become fatal.

Dr Peter Campbell, who led the lung cancer research, said not all genetic mutations cause cancer – which is why some smokers never develop the disease.

But he added that smoking a pack a day was like “playing Russian roulette” as eventually genetic mutations would occur that would create the perfect recipe for cancer.

The genetic maps also revealed the mutations that caused malignant melanoma, or skin cancer.

The research, published in the journal Nature, was last night lauded by other cancer organisations. The Institute for Cancer Research’s scientific spokesperson, Dr Elizabeth Rapley, said: “These are exciting studies that show us a great deal about how cancer is triggered and driven by mutations in DNA.

“As more cancer genomes are revealed, we will gain a greater understanding of how cancer is caused and develops, improving our ability to prevent and cure it.”

Harpal Kumar, Cancer Research UK’s chief executive, said: “This shows in precise detail, and for the first time, the huge impact that smoking has in triggering the development of lung cancer.”

Would you like to receive news notifications from Daily Express?