1. Specific Tumor Suppressor Genes

2. p53 gene Function: create p53 protein “guardian of the genome”
conserves genetic stability
Estimated 50% of all human tumors have mutated p53 gene

3. p53 protein
Three major functions: growth arrest, DNA repair, and apoptosis
Growth arrest- halts cell cycle, prevents replication of damaged DNA
DNA repair- fix damaged DNA
apoptosis-last resort, end proliferation of abnormal cells

4. p53 gene If damaged, tumor suppressor role is greatly reduced
Damaged allele can be inherited or acquired in life from mutagens

5. BRCA genes BRCA 1- produce breast cancer type 1 susceptibility protein
Both proteins used to repair damaged DNA

6. BRCA genes
If mutated, will not correctly produce tumor suppressor proteins
Mutations increase risk of breast and ovarian cancer
account for 20-25% of hereditary female breast cancer

7. BRCA genes
55-60% of women who inherit BRCA1 mutation and 45% who inherit harmful BRCA2 mutation will develop breast cancer by the age of 70.
Genetic testing available
look at family history