Researchers Find Genetic Link to Familial Colon Cancer

Researchers from University Hospitals of Cleveland and Case Western Reserve University have identified a specific location on a human chromosome that houses a ``susceptibility'' gene for the type of colon cancer that tends to run in families.

Reporting in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the researchers said a stretch of DNA on chromosome 9 -- which is home to at least 200 genes -- is the site of the gene mutation that makes some people more susceptiable to colorectal cancer.

"Future research will focus on finding the one responsible gene," said Dr. Georgia Wiesner, Director of the Center for Human Genetics.

In their study, the researchers analyzed blood samples from 53 families, in which at least one member of the family had a colon cancer or pre-cancerous colon polyp, and found the common link on chromosome 9.

"Previous studies have shown that colon cancer risk can be inherited," said Dr. Sanford Markowitz. "This moves us much closer to developing a blood test that will identify people who are susceptible to colon cancer well before the cancer ever develops."

Finding colon cancer early greatly increases a patient's chance of survival.

Researchers need 100 more families to participate in the next phase of the study. Siblings who have had colon cancer or polyps before turning 65 are eligible. More information is available by calling 1-800-641-2422.

Other sources: Bristol Myers Squibb, FDA