The Role of BRCA1 in Cancer

BRCA1 is an integral protein in the DNA repair pathway. Inherited alterations in the structure of BRCA1 cause interruption of the DNA repair process, which over time, lead to accumulation of more and more DNA damage in cells. This greatly increases the risk for cancer. Women afflicted with these inherited changes in BRCA1 face a lifetime of constant surveillance and medical intervention to fight the possibility of cancer developing. At the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, we are at the forefront of research into the myriad mechanisms causing cancer. We also provide the world's best cancer diagnostics, care, medical advice and management and psychological support.