New Method Distinguishes Dangerous Genetic Mutations for Breast and Ovarian Cancer

An international scientific team, led by the Biostatistics Unit of the Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics (CING), has developed a new method for more reliably interpreting mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.

The study, published in Nature Communications, analyzed data from over 400,000 women worldwide, aiming to distinguish genetic mutations that increase cancer risk from those that do not.

Dr. Kyriaki Michailidou, head of the study, stated that the new analysis offers practical applications in clinical practice, allowing doctors and geneticists to more accurately inform women about the risks associated with the mutations they carry.

The statistical model developed compares the frequency of specific mutations in women with and without cancer, helping to identify mutations associated with increased risk.

Prof. Leonidas Phylactou, General Executive Director and Medical Director of CING, emphasized that the study is an important step towards personalized medicine and demonstrates the Institute's role in women's prevention and health.

The study is available at Nature Communications.