Question

explain why people who inherit one mutated allele of the BRCA1 gene have a higher likelihood of developing cancer

Answer 1

Everyone has 2 copies of BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 genes, one copy inherited from Mother and another copy from Father.

• These genes are involved in Cell growth, Cell division, Cell repair, etc...
• In Heterogeneous individuals who carry both Dominant and Recessive traits, If any or both these genes are in working condition, Then such a person is completely normal with No risk of Breast, Ovarian or Prostrate Cancer.
• In rare conditions, any one gene becomes Mutated or Non-Working. Then, Such a gene can cause DNA damage in cells to go un-repaired.
• This increases the chance of a person to develop Cancer.
• in general, Persons with BRCA mutations have a increased risk of developing cancer at an early age.
• For people with no History of Breast or Ovarian Cancer in their family, the likelihood of carrying a BRCA mutation (Non-Working gene) is quite low.
• In addition to BRCA, There are other Gene Mutations that can cause Cancer to run in the family. But they are yet to be identified.
• BRCA 1 mutation is worse than BRCA 2 mutation because They are known to develop Aggressive Cancers that are difficult to be treated and controlled.