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Written By: Editorial Team | Published : July 22, 2014 10:49 AM IST
Researchers have identified a critical gene that could help clinicians distinguish fibroadenomas cases from breast cancer. Fibroadenomas is the most common benign breast tumour in women of reproductive age. The researchers used advanced DNA sequencing technologies to identify the gene called MED12 that was repeatedly disrupted in nearly 60 percent of fibroadenoma cases.
'It is amazing that these common breast tumours can be caused by such a precise disruption in a single gene. Our findings show that even common diseases can have a very exact genetic basis. Importantly, now that we know the cause of fibroadenoma, this research can have many potential applications,' said professor Tan Puay Hoon from Singapore General Hospital. For example, measuring the MED12 gene in breast lumps may help clinicians to distinguish fibroadenomas from other types of breast cancer, Tan added. 'Drugs targeting the MED12 pathway may also be useful in patients with multiple and recurrent fibroadenomas as this could help patients avoid surgery and relieve anxiety,' Tan noted. (Read: 12 risk factors for breast cancer you should know)
The researchers began a study to identify if there are any genetic abnormalities in fibroadenomas that may be used to differentiate them. By analysing all the protein-coding genes in a panel of fibroadenomas from Singapore patients, the team identified frequent mutations in a gene called MED12 in a remarkable 60 percent of fibroadenomas. The findings have also deepened the conceptual understanding of how tumours can develop. Like most breast tumours including breast cancers, fibroadenomas consist of a mixed population of different cell types, called epithelial cells and stromal cells. (Read: How to do a breast self-examination to check for cancer)
However, unlike breast cancers where the genetic abnormalities arise from the epithelial cells, the scientists, using a technique called laser capture microdissection (LCM), showed that the pivotal MED12 mutations in fibroadenomas are found in the stromal cells. The study appeared in the journal Nature Genetics. (Read: One sure-fire tip to beat breast cancer!)
Here are some symptoms of breast cancer
Symptom #1: Lumps
If you notice a hard lump or knot, that is usually painless in your breast (either one or both), then it's time to get a mammography done. Finding a lump does take a little bit of effort, and doing regular breast self exams are imperative to catch this symptom early.
Symptom #2: Slight hardening
Occasionally, you might not be able to discern a clear cut lump cannot, but a 'lumpish' feel is there. And this feel is different as compared to the same area of the opposite breast. You will feel a sort of hardening in one area of your breast(s) which must be investigated early. Usually this symptom is ignored as a minor change in the composition of your breast but, considering it could be an early indicator of breast cancer, get yourself tested as soon as you can.
Symptom #3: Nipple discharge
Under normal circumstances there should be no discharge from your nipples '(unless you are pregnant or have just had a baby), but if you see bloody or blood stained fluid being discharged from your nipples, it a sign that you need to visit your doctor immediately. Read more about 6 breast cancer symptoms you should never ignore
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With inputs from IANS
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