A research group at Osaka University conducted a large-scale genome analysis using the human genome information of a total of 118 million people, and identified genetic polymorphisms (individual differences existing on the genome sequence) that affect "genetic predisposition" in cancer. ) were newly identified at 10 locations.
It is known that each individual's "genetic predisposition" (inborn susceptibility to cancer) is involved in the development of cancer.So far, many genetic polymorphisms that affect the onset of each cancer type have been identified, but most of them are studies based on the genome data of Europeans and Americans.Because of the possibility that genetic predisposition differs between races, a total of 118 million Japanese and Western populations collected from Biobank Japan (Japan) and UK Biobank (UK) A large-scale genome-wide association study (GWAS) integrating 13 types of cancer was performed using human genomic data.
As a result, we first identified five new genetic polymorphisms involved in the development of specific cancers.In addition, we identified five new genetic polymorphisms associated with the development of various cancers through cross-cancer GWAS for all 5 types of cancer.
Next, the researchers assessed genetic correlations (degrees of commonality of genetic predisposition) between cancers and found common parts of genetic predisposition to breast cancer and prostate cancer.It was also found that this relationship is common to both Japanese and Westerners.
Focusing on this relationship, by conducting a large-scale GWAS integrating breast and prostate cancer, we succeeded in clarifying factors such as gene groups and cell types that are commonly involved in the background of the onset of both cancers. It is said that
Accelerating research on genetic polymorphisms that are involved in genetic predisposition to various types of cancer and their target genes identified in this study will lead to new treatments that target multiple cancers. It is expected that this will lead to further development.Advances in understanding the complex carcinogenic mechanisms caused by genetic predisposition may contribute to cancer prevention and the promotion of personalized medicine.
Paper information:[Nature Communications] Pan-cancer and cross-population genome-wide association studies dissect shared genetic backgrounds underlying carcinogenesis
