Tumor Repressor Genes in the Prevention of Cancer

Some epidemiological studies suggest that many solid tumor types occur less often than predicted in individuals with Down syndrome. Using mouse models of trisomy 21 and cancer, scientists at JHU have provided biological proof of this phenomenon. In doing so, they propose to have identified a novel class of cancer related gene, a tumor repressor. Understanding how this class of gene represses tumorigenesis could provide the basis for developing prophylactic approaches to cancer prevention. Description (Set) Proposed Use (Set) The NIH estimates that cancer costs the U.S. economy $107 billion per year; obviously the impact on the world economy is much larger. Reducing this burden by even a small percentage through a daily regimen akin to taking a vitamin would greatly alleviate strains on the health care system and prevent myriad deaths from cancer. Mimicking the effects of over-expression of this gene or genes with a pharmacological approach, could reasonably be expected to reduce tumor incidence without causing other manifestations of Down syndrome. This system represents the prototype for what is likely to be a large class of tumor repressor genes.

Inventor(s): Reeves, Roger H.

Type of Offer: Licensing



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