The sun causes mutations in the genes leading to skin cancer
Last reviewed: 16.10.2021
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
A special genetic mutation of RAC1, characteristic exclusively of skin cancer and caused by exposure to UV radiation, was identified by the Yale specialists together with the Queensland Institute for Medical Research. As noted by Sky News, this mutation is present in about 9% of patients with melanoma.
This discovery was made during the analysis of the genes of 147 types of cancer. Professor Nick Hayward also proved that the mutation causes the spread of cancer to the internal organs. And all the blame is the sun (the mutation was found only in tumors that appeared due to UV exposure). This moment distinguishes RAC1 from widely known mutations - BRAF and NRAS.
Hayward is sure: the first drugs aimed at RAC1 can be tested in 3-5 years. Biologically, the mutation is similar to the rest of the cancer, so creating a medicine should not be a big problem. The goal is to obtain a technology that allows developing a suitable treatment for each patient, based on the genetic nature of cancer.