Researchers in British Columbia have developed a blood test that identifies genes linked to certain cancers and determines the parental origin of the mutation [1, 2].
This development allows medical professionals to pinpoint whether a genetic predisposition was inherited from the mother or the father. Identifying the source of a mutation can help clinicians better understand family risk patterns and implement more personalized medical interventions for high-risk patients [1, 2].
The test focuses on hereditary cancer risk, which often involves mutations passed through generations. By determining the specific parent from whom the gene was inherited, doctors can more accurately screen other family members who may carry the same risk [2].
Local researchers in British Columbia created the tool to enable earlier identification of these risks [1]. The technology is currently being used as part of a study to evaluate its effectiveness in clinical settings [2].
Traditional genetic testing can identify the presence of a mutation, but determining the parent of origin often requires more complex analysis. This new approach streamlines the process through a blood test, potentially increasing the number of patients who can access precise genetic information [1, 2].
The ability to track the inheritance path of a cancer-linked gene provides a clearer map for preventative care. This includes more frequent screenings, or prophylactic surgeries, for those confirmed to carry the hereditary mutation [2].
“The test can determine if a person carries a gene linked to certain cancers.”
This diagnostic advancement shifts hereditary cancer screening from simply identifying a mutation to mapping its lineage. By establishing the parental origin of a genetic risk, healthcare providers can more effectively identify other at-risk relatives, potentially leading to earlier detection and preventative treatments that can save lives in families with a history of cancer.
