In a recent breakthrough, scientists have uncovered new genes linked to a higher risk of colon and rectal cancer.
This discovery could be a game-changer for preventing and treating this common form of cancer.
Researchers from the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in the US used a unique genetic method called TWAS to compare genes with cancer traits.
They found two new genes, TRPSI and METRNL, that can promote cancer. Another gene, C14orfl66, previously linked to cancer risk, was also confirmed.
Lead scientist Xingyi Guo said, “Our study used new genetic data and advanced techniques to find these genes. By understanding them better, we can work towards preventing and treating colorectal cancer.”
Although we already knew about 200 genetic variants connected to colorectal cancer, the specific genes and how they work weren’t clear. TWAS helps us find these genes.
The researchers also tried a new approach called splicing-TWAS, which is not well-explored for colorectal cancer.
They analyzed normal colon tissue genes and genetic data from 423 people of European descent to make predictions about gene activity.
In total, they identified 57 genes linked to colorectal cancer risk.
Surprisingly, 16 of these were completely new discoveries not found in previous studies.
The researchers believe that using these advanced techniques will reveal even more genes connected to cancer risk in the future.
However, it’s important to note that this study focused only on people of European descent, so more research is needed to see if these genes apply to other populations.
