Mutations

=**BRCA1 and BRCA2 Mutations**=
 * BRCA1
 * [[image:http://www.topac.com/images/electrophoresis/multisubchoice400.jpg width="217" height="171" align="right"]]Found on chromosome 17
 * Tumor suppressor gene
 * Associated with early onset breast cancer, ovarian, fallopian tubes
 * Linked to male breast cancer, pancreatic, testicular, early prostate
 * BRCA2
 * Chromosome 13
 * Tumor suppressor gene
 * Associated with Breast, male breast, ovarian, prostate, melanoma, pancreatic
 * Approximately 2,000 BRCA1 AND 2 mutations. Both genes also repair DNA, regulate transcription and control cell cycles
 * Inheriting BRCA1 AND BRCA2 mutations can lead to an increased chance of cancer at early age because the mutations are present from conception
 * BRCA are autosomal dominant
 * Most breast cancers are not hereditary or genetic, not all carriers of BRCA mutations will get breast cancer


 * Gel Electrophoresis:** helps detect mutation in DNA sequences/analyze them in general. Uses restriction enzymes that cut DNA, compare to normal DNA and see the mutations
 * The electric current helps move the DNA through the gel, moving towards the positive side of the gel
 * **[|Virtual Lab Link]**

=﻿Genetic Counseling=
 * Family Pedigree:** pedigrees, such as the one to the left, help map out the health history in a family. A genetic counselor can help do this, and advise whether or not a person should get tested for certain diseases, mutations, etc., or at an earlier age.

Helpful information on gentics and genetic counseling: [|HERE]