Scientists Identify Mutated Gene that Causes Rare Brain Tumor Type

Researchers from Dana-Farber/Boston Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, and the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard have identified a mutated gene that causes a type of tenacious brain tumor. The mutated gene — known as BRAF — was found in almost all samples of tumors called papillary craniopharyngiomas, which occur mainly in adults. The second type of craniopharyngioma, called adamantinomatous, typically affects children. Previously, repeated surgeries and radiation were the only options to treat craniopharyngiomas. However, as a result of this discovery scientists can potentially develop drug therapies. To find out more about this study, click here.