Scientists discover gene mutation that can develop new treatment for cancer
Q. Scientists have discovered new gene mutation found in many human cancers which promotes the growth of aggressive tumours. Which protein does the gene code for?- Published on 30 May 16a. POT1
b. POT2
c. POT3
d. POT4
ANSWER: POT1
Scientists have discovered how a gene mutation found in several human cancers promotes the growth of aggressive tumours, a finding that may develop new treatment for the deadly disease.
- The mechanism through which the mutation leads to the scrambling to the genome is when you really get massive tumours.
- Research also suggests a possible way to kill these tumours by targeting important enzymes
- Researchers studied mutations in a gene that codes for protein POT1. This protein forms a protective cap across the ends of the chromosomes called telomeres, stopping cell machinery from mistakenly dancing DNA and causing harmful mutations
- POT1 is so critical that cells without functional POT1 would die rather than passing on POT1 mutations- stress in these cells leads to activation of an enzyme called ATR triggering programmed cell death
- Scientists in recent years were surprised to find recurring mutations affecting POT1 in several human cancers including melanoma and leukaemia.
- Those cells found a way to survive and thrive sometimes and scientists have discovered its mechanism.
