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Monthly Spotlights

Cancer and Genetics

Some gene activity is controlled by a process called DNA methylation, in which chemical compounds called methyl groups (shown in red and yellow) attach and detach from key portions of genes. Another control mechanism is known as chromatin remodeling, in which proteins called histones (in blue) cause changes in the way DNA is packaged in the cell nucleus.

Some gene activity is controlled by a process called DNA methylation, in which chemical compounds called methyl groups (shown in red and yellow) attach and detach from key portions of genes. Another control mechanism is known as chromatin remodeling, in which proteins called histones (in blue) cause changes in the way DNA is packaged in the cell nucleus.

Genes are a factor in a person's cancer risk. When there are harmful changes, or mutations, in certain genes, it may increase an individual's chances of developing cancer. But genes don't write destiny in stone: Some people who inherit mutated genes never develop cancer. Many people have no known gene mutations and still develop cancer. Understanding the genetic underpinnings of cancer gives researchers at Dana-Farber a better understanding of the biology and origins of the disease. It helps us identify at-risk individuals and develop new, more effective therapies. With a precise knowledge of the role of genetics in cancer, doctors and researchers will develop better prevention, screening, and treatment strategies in the fight against the disease.

Learn more about the interplay between genetics and cancer through the resources and web links below.

Genetic and Cancer Resources

Learn more about the science of cancer, the genetic screening and detection process, and how genetics enters into risk assessment and prevention strategies.

Personal Stories

  • Martha Hayward – A sister's gift leads to breast cancer education

    Martha Hayward

    Since her and her sister's cancer diagnoses, Martha Hayward has thought about ways to encourage women to be diligent about screening and early detection. She has come up with an idea that she hopes will make a difference. Read her story.

  • Robert Soiffer, MD – Stem cell donors: everyday heroes

    Robert Soiffer

    Dana-Farber transplant physician Robert Soiffer, MD, explains why making a stem cell donation is not just a generous gift – it's a life-changing, heroic act.
    Read more.

  • Suzanne Blanchard – In memory of her daughter

    Suzanne Blanchard

    After losing her 37-year-old daughter to breast cancer, Suzanne Blanchard chose to participate in a national clinical trial of women at increased risk of contracting the disease. She shares the story of her inspiration for enrolling in the study. Read her story.

News and research on cancer and genetics

Dana-Farber’s genetics research programs

From the web

Staff members at the Blum Patient and Family Resource Room (http://www.dana-farber.org/pat/support/resource-rooms/home.html) have compiled a comprehensive list of online resources for cancer patients and others hoping to learn more about cancer and genetics. Here are their recommended sites:

Cancer and genetics quiz

If a person inherits a mutated gene associated with cancer, will he or she develop the disease?








Related Story

Sharing cancer, sharing a gift

June Levinson and Julie Ross

With breast cancer diagnoses nearly 30 years apart, a mother and daughter discover they have much more in common than cancer. They recount with candor their disparate (yet similar) journeys, discovering a bond that would sustain them through cancer and inspire their support for research. Read their story.