Scientists identify a single 'master' gene that seems to turn on cancer-causing action of other errant genes

Story dated 20 January 2005

"[T]he cancer-triggering gene [dubbed "Pokemon"] apparently instigates the misbehavior of other cancer-causing genes, leading to tumor formation. . . Dr. Carlos Cardon-Cardo, a molecular pathologist at the cancer center and a senior author of the research, defined Pokemon as an oncogene, which means it is capable of causing cancer. Dozens of oncogenes have been discovered over the past 25 years. But unlike the others, Cardon-Cardo said Pokemon has a governing role -- it is needed for other genes to function. Eliminate Pokemon, he said, and you stop the activity of other cancer-causing genes." This could be good news. 'Pokemon' is a common gene. Its commonness means that there is money to be made in developing gene treatments involving Pokemon. However, you have to remember that the cancer-treatment & research industry is a huge moneymaker in and of itself. Considering how many jobs will be lost if cancer is cured, one has to wonder if we can really expect a preventative measure to come of this research.

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Subject Matter: Medicine Science

posted by The Sovereign Editor | 3:49 PM

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