A study of Arc-Net center at the University of Verona has identified three new genes involved in pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors. The international team has decoded the genome of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors, identifying new genetic mutations linked as they arise. The discovery will facilitate the diagnosis and classification of the disease. also it allows you to develop personalized treatments, designed according to the characteristics of the individual patient.

Scientists have sequenced the genome of about 100 tumors, then used the other 60 data samples as a comparative measure. The data revealed that 17% of the cases were linked to a genetic mutation, in contrast to 5% estimated at the beginning. They also showed three new genes involved, namely BRCA1, CHEK2 and MUTYH. These will add to other two genes known to the involvement in the disease, MEN1 and VHL. Genetic abnormalities are related to the ability to repair DNA and growth regulation and cellular aging.

Neuroendocrine pancreatic tumors are heterogeneous and often slow to develop. Some of these, however, they become aggressive suddenly and for no apparent reason. Genetic analysis may help understand which tumors are more aggressive. In this way, doctors would reserve the harshest treatment at really necessary cases. also make locating through a DNA test the most at risk, so as to make early diagnosis and minimize the risks.

Something similar is happening already with other forms of cancer, such as breast and ovarian cancer. In the case of these tumors, they know some of the genes involved in their development. You can then make specific genetic screening, highlighting a possible predisposition and enable it to take appropriate precautions.

Source: repubblica.it