Genetic Susceptibility to Leukaemia Revealed
For the first time researchers have proved that there is a genetic susceptibility to developing chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL), the most common form of leukaemia in the developed world. Anecdotal evidence has suggested that inherited factors play a role in the development of CLL, scientists have until now been unable to prove a genetic basis.
A study involving Institute scientists has proven that variation in certain genes do play a part and this will open the way for better treatment of existing patients. It may also lead to preventive medicine for the disease in the future. Close relatives, i.e. siblings, parents or children, of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia have a seven-times higher chance of developing this blood cancer compared with the general population. For many cancers such as breast cancer, part of the familial risk is caused by a single major disease-risk gene - but no such gene exists for CLL.
Dr David Grant, Scientific Consultant at Leukaemia Research, says: "This finding is very exciting as it carries the possibility of improving treatments for individuals who we know are at risk of developing this leukaemia. Clinical applications are still a little while away but this is a very important step forward in understanding the basis of this common leukaemia."
