Mapping the Cancer Genome

摘要: ‘‘I f we wish to learn more about cancer, must now concentrate on the cellular genome.” Nobel laureate Renato Dulbecco penned those words than 20 years ago in one of earliest public calls for what would become Human Genome Project. “We are at a turning point,” Dulbecco, pioneering cancer researcher, declared 1986 journal Science. Discoveries preceding had made clear that much deranged behavior cells stemmed from damage their genes and alterations functioning. have two options,” he wrote. “Either try discover important malignancy by piecemeal approach, or ... sequence whole others scientific community grasped sequencing human genome, though monumental achievement itself, mark just first step quest fully understand biology cancer. With complete nucleotide bases normal DNA hand, scientists then need classify wide array according function—which turn could reveal roles Over span decades Dulbecco’s vision has moved pipe dream reality. Less three after Project’s completion, National Institutes Health officially launched pilot stage an effort create comprehensive catalogue genomic changes involved cancer: The Cancer Atlas (TCGA). main reason pursue this next ambitious venture large-scale with great urgency is cancer’s terrible toll humankind. Every day 1,500 Americans die cancer—about person every minute. As U.S. population ages, rate expected rise significantly ahead unless investigators find ways accelerate identification new vulnerabilities within cancerous develop novel strategies attacking targets. Still, however noble intent, it takes desire ease suffering justify research enterprise magnitude. When applied 50 most common types ultimately prove be equivalent 10,000 Projects terms sheer volume sequenced. therefore matched but realistic assessment emerging opportunities waging smarter war against By Francis S. Collins Anna D. Barker MAPPING THE CANCER GENOME