WASHINGTON: Scientists have identified two genetic mutations they believe are linked with the most common types of brain cancer and longer survival
times. Researchers at Johns Hopkins and Duke universities discovered variations in the IDH1 and IDH2 genes that are associated with three quarters of the most common types of cancer tumors, known as gliomas.

It is hoped the findings could open the way to more successful treatment of the disease. Patients with these types of mutations can survive at least two times longer than those with other genetic variations, according to the work, which was published in the February 19 addition of the New England Journal of Medicine.

"Pathologists may find it useful to determine IDH1/IDH2 status to help identify and classify these cancers," said Williams Parsons, a visiting professor in pediatric oncology at Johns Hopkins. "The IDH mutation could serve as a biomarker that would help single out individuals who are likely to have better outcomes and receive different treatment," said Darell Bigner of Duke University and a coauthor of the report.

Source:- Times Of India