Science & Technology - Current Affairs Questions and Answers for Q. 21894
Q. Scientists have identified a gene to help protect against melanoma- what is it called?- Published on 23 May 16a. Sunscreen gene
b. Sun gene
c. UV Radiation Resistance Associated Gene
d. Both a and c
ANSWER: Both a and c
Scientists have located a sunscreen gene which may help to protect against melanoma, one of the deadliest forms of skin cancer.
- Researchers have found that melanoma patients with mutant or deficient copies of UV radiation resistance associated gene are less protected from harmful UV rays
- If there is an understanding of how UV resistant gene functions and processes by which cells repair themselves after ultraviolet damage, the targets could be found for drugs to revert a misguided mechanism back to normal conditions, according to Chengyu Liang from the University of South California in the US
- Close to 90 percent of melanoma skin cancers develop on account of cell damage from exposure to UV radiation, according to researchers.
- Those with mutated UV resistant gene or low levels of the UV resistant gene may be at higher risk of melanoma or other skin cancers, especially if they go sunbathing or tanning.
- UV resistant gene may serve as a biomarker for skin cancer prevention
