Leukaemia gene discovered

Scientists have identified a gene that predisposes people to leukaemia.

In a study published in Nature Genetics, scientists from University of Washington revealed that they have found a genetic defect which makes people more prone to acute myeloid leukaemia and myelodysplasia.

The mutations were found in the GATA2 gene, which is a gene that acts as a master control during the transition of blood-forming cells into white blood cells.

As part of the study, the researchers investigated four unrelated families who had several relations over numerous generations suffer from the blood cancer.

The disease took hold between the teens and early 40s and the course was rapid.

"While several genes have been discovered and linked to solid, malignant tumours such as breast cancer in families susceptible to those types of cancer, so far very few inherited mutations have been uncovered for blood cancers," said Dr Marshall S Horwitz, professor of pathology at the University of Washington.

This research could help the development of new therapeutic agents.