Breakthrough In Cancer Mutations: Detection & Causes

A novel technology developed by Cardiff University researchers in the Dept. Genetics, Haematology & Pathology (MEDIC) offers a novel method for assessing the frequency of DNA mutations. This exciting breakthrough expands the capacity to detect damage across the entire human genome, far surpassing previous methods which were able to accomplish less than 20% of this. The work has huge potential in understanding the mechanisms underlying DNA damage and repair, implicated in cancer.

The breakthrough comes as a result of work by Professor Ray Waters, head of the Cancer IRG, and his colleagues Dr Simon Reed and Dr Yumin Teng. The work was originally funded via MRC and CRW funds, while further application for CRUK funding has also been successful. Significant Intellectual Property was created during the course of this work leading to a patent filing in 2007 to protect the interests of the inventors.

DNA damage is caused by all manner of environmental stimuli, and occurs constantly within the body. Numerous mechanisms exist to protect us from the potentially lethal consequences of such mutations – only when these protective mechanisms fail do problems arise and cancers develop. An ability to rapidly and accurately assess genotoxicity of compounds or conditions is a valuable tool which has huge potential across multiple industries including pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. Further, a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying the emergence of malignancies may lead to improved  methods for preventing and treating patients.

Speaking about the breakthrough, Professor Waters commented:

“This is really an exciting development, as it enables us - for the first time - to examine DNA damage in the entire human genome in all of its genes.”

“This is especially useful if we examine the damage to people’s DNA of those with cancer. By examining damage we can understand the causes of cancer as well as help develop ways of treating it.”

Profile: Professor Ray Waters