Tests are available to detect certain mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. In 5-10% of all breast cancer, the disease arises due to mutations inherited from either parent. Of these cases, mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes may account for 80%. There are currently tests available for people from families with a high incidence of breast cancer to find out if they have inherited mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2.
Keywords:
brca1 and brca2 genes,incidence of breast cancer,breast cancer,mutations,brca1 and brca2
Mary-Claire King talks about the value of using the centuries-old tool of family pedigrees to gain insight into patterns of inheritance of genetic disorders.
Mary-Claire King speaks about how much was yet to be understood about the genetic mechanisms of cancer when she began her hunt for genes associated with breast cancer.