Understanding Genetic Causes of Inherited Breast and Ovarian Cancer
Genomic Analysis of Inherited Breast and Ovarian Cancer
This project aims to find new genetic reasons why breast and ovarian cancer run in some families, even when known genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2 don't explain it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11158889 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The grant recognizes that while we know a lot about genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2, many families still have unexplained inherited breast and ovarian cancer. Researchers believe that hidden genetic changes, not in the main gene code but in the 'control' regions, might be responsible. They will use advanced genetic tools, like long-read sequencing and new ways to test gene activity, to look for these hidden changes. The goal is to examine genetic material from over a thousand families with a strong history of these cancers to uncover these new genetic causes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals from families with a strong history of breast and/or ovarian cancer where current genetic tests have not yet found a cause.
Not a fit: Patients whose cancer is not inherited or whose genetic cause is already known through existing tests may not directly benefit from this specific discovery phase.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new genetic tests and better ways to identify individuals at high risk for inherited breast and ovarian cancer, allowing for earlier prevention or treatment.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of known genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2 is well-established, this project uses novel technologies to explore previously undetected genetic variations, making its specific approach largely untested.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: King, Mary-Claire — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: King, Mary-Claire
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.