Wistar research team identifies new gene

Three years ago, researchers in Utah pinpointed a possible cause of breast and ovarian cancers: BRCA1, a gene that, when inherited in a mutated form, gives women an 80 percent chance of developing the diseases. The discovery made it possible to genetically test for carriers of the gene, spurring research around the world aimed at arriving at a better understanding of BRCA1 -- including one such effort at the Wistar Institute of Anatomy and Biology, an independent scientific organization at 36th and Spruce streets. As part of their research, however, the Wistar team identified a new gene, BAP1, associated with the cancers. The discovery makes it possible to do genetic testing for the Wistar-discovered gene as well. Such earlier testing can increase the possibility of successfully treating the cancer. BAP1 works by encoding an enzyme that regulates levels of BRCA1. Both genes are tumor suppressors that appear to be part of a large complex controlling the growth of certain cells in the breasts and lungs. Mutations in either BAP1 or BRCA1 can limit this process, leading to the development of cancer. The findings of the Wistar research group -- which collaborated with other researchers around the world -- were published in the March 1 issue of the journal Oncogene. Frank Rauscher, director of the Institute's cancer biology program, described BAP1 as "an incredible tool" for detecting cancer. BAP1 "has a lot of potential" for future research into detecting cancer, according to lead researcher David Jensen, who often worked 12-hour days on the project. The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation provided part of the funding for the project, including Jensen's salary and research expenses. But a surprising new source -- the U.S. Defense Department -- has come forward for possible future funding of breast cancer research. According to Rauscher, the department is beginning to commit money toward a "full frontal assault" on breast cancer. "I keep getting phone calls asking for information [about the project]," added Jensen, who is obligated to send tissue samples to all scientists that ask for them to replicate and expand upon Wistar's BAP1 research. "I'm under the gun right now," Jensen said, referring to the fact that with the publishing of the paper, other researchers will be able to begin new research based upon the finding of BAP1. "Hopefully no [labs with large number of researchers] will pick it up," he noted, explaining that a lab with a larger staff might expand upon his research, leaving him in the dust. Jensen said he wishes he was able to hire eight more researchers for the project.