Cancer has been a major health concern worldwide, and researchers have been on a quest to find better methods to treat this disease. Recent major DNA discoveries have brought new hope for cancer patients, and unveiled promising treatment options.

The aim of these new treatments is to target the genetic mutations that cause cancer at the molecular level.

Understanding the Role of DNA in Cancer

Before discussing the new treatment options, it is important to understand the role of DNA in cancer. Cells in our bodies are made up of DNA, which holds the genetic information necessary for cell growth and function.

However, sometimes changes, also known as mutations, can occur in the DNA code. These mutations can cause a cell to grow faster than normal or not die when it should. Over time, these cancerous cells continue to divide and form a tumor.

In the past, cancer treatment methods included surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. These treatments are often effective but have serious side effects and can be invasive.

With the new DNA discoveries, researchers are developing targeted therapies that have less harmful side effects and can be more effective.

Discovering the TP53 Gene Mutation

One of the major DNA discoveries that have unveiled promising cancer treatments is the TP53 gene mutation. This discovery is credited to Dr. Arnold Levine, who identified the TP53 gene in humans in the 1990s.

The TP53 gene plays a critical role in regulating cell division and is often called the “guardian of the genome.” When the TP53 gene mutation occurs, cells can divide uncontrollably, leading to cancer.

Researchers are now working on developing therapies that can target the TP53 gene mutation. These therapies could help stop the uncontrolled cell growth caused by the mutation.

One such treatment is the use of small molecules that can specifically target the mutated TP53 gene.

Targeting the KRAS Gene Mutation

Another significant DNA discovery unveiled the targeting of the KRAS gene mutation. The KRAS gene is involved in regulating cell growth, and in cases of mutation, it can cause uncontrolled cell division that can lead to cancer.

Mutations in the KRAS gene are seen in around 30% of all human cancers.

Researchers are working on developing drugs that can target the KRAS gene mutation. One such drug, AMG 510, has been shown to be effective in targeting KRAS mutations in lung cancer.

The drug works by binding to the mutated KRAS protein, preventing it from activating cell growth.

Using Tumor Mutational Burden to Guide Therapy Choices

Another promising avenue for cancer treatment involves the use of tumor mutational burden (TMB). TMB is a measure of the number of mutations in a tumor’s DNA.

High TMB can be an indicator of tumors that have more mutations and have a higher potential for immune response. Studies have shown that targeting tumors with high TMB could lead to better treatment outcomes.

Researchers are developing therapies that can target TMB. One such therapy is checkpoint inhibitors, which work by removing any blockades on the immune system’s ability to recognize and destroy cancer cells.

Immune checkpoint inhibitors have shown promising results in treating melanoma and lung cancer.

CRISPR Gene Editing for Cancer Treatment

CRISPR gene editing is a promising new technology that can be used for cancer treatment. The CRISPR-Cas9 system is a tool that can make precise changes to DNA sequences.

Researchers are exploring the use of CRISPR gene editing to target specific mutations that cause cancer.

One such example is the use of CRISPR gene editing to correct MUTYH-associated polyposis (MAP). MAP is an inherited condition that leads to the development of multiple adenomas in the colon, which can then turn into cancer.

In a recent study, researchers used CRISPR-Cas9 technology to precisely correct the mutation in the MAP gene. The results of this study showed that CRISPR gene editing could be a promising treatment option for MAP and other inherited conditions that lead to cancer.

Conclusion

Major DNA discoveries have unveiled promising cancer treatment options. Researchers are now developing targeted therapies that aim to address the genetic mutations that cause cancer at the molecular level.

These treatments are expected to be more effective and have fewer harmful side effects. The stage is set for the development of newer, more efficient and less invasive treatments, in the fight against cancer.