First Cancer-promoting Oncogenes Discovered in Rare Brain Tumor of Children and Adults

Three genes have been identified as major contributors to the development of the choroid plexus carcinoma (CPC) brain tumor, which could help strengthen future treatments. Scientists from St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital recently published a study in the journal Cancer Cell with an analysis of the genes TAF12, NFYC and RAD54L, detailing how extra copies of these genes appeared to culminate in the launch and sustainment of this rare tumor. “These oncogenes may function like a mechanic who is always on the spot to keep a junk car running,” said the author. “Just like the car will break down if you get rid of the mechanic, preclinical trials are underway using different drug combinations to block the hyperactive DNA repair mechanism so the tumors eventually succumb to the accumulated DNA damage.” Researchers also determined that investigational drugs known as ATR inhibitors, which were developed for this type of cancer, should fundamentally address CPC based on these findings. To learn more about this study, click here.