Discover two new gene variants that cause malignant skin cancer

International scientists led by Australia's Queensland Institute of Medical Research (QIMR) have discovered two new gene variants that increase the risk of melanoma skin cancer.

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These variants were discovered by scientists when studying the DNA of more than 2,000 Australians with malignant tumors and more than 4,000 people without melanoma.

Research shows that if a patient has a variant, their risk of developing skin cancer increases by 13%.

Leading the QIMR team researcher Stuart MacGregor says that finding these two genetic variants will help increase the predictability of people at risk of this potentially lethal disease.

These new gene variants have a 13% increased risk of skin cancer.

'This new finding helps early diagnosis of the detection of melanoma to prevent the development of the disease. Identifying variations is an important step in accurately determining the risk of disease. This means that people will be informed in advance and can take preventive measures to avoid this common cancer , 'MacGregor said.

MacGregor said that, unlike the other 18 known variants, two new genetic variants do not appear to be as simple as changing skin pigments or moles.

'A variation occurs in the process of altering DNA under the ultraviolet (UV) radiation effect, while another variant may play an important role in tumor formation , ' MacGregor said. .

Malignant tumors are one of the most common types of cancer affecting many young people in Australia. It is also the most dangerous risk for skin cancer.

Further discovery of the genetic basis of malignant tumors can help clinicians diagnose and treat future malignant tumors. Of course the prevention process is still the best.