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Cancer: Impact of BRCA mutations Virtual Lab

Investigate the principles of cancer development and cancer-related gene mutations to assess the risk of breast cancer development in a patient with a history of cancer in the family.

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Cancer: Impact of BRCA mutations

About this Simulation

This short, targeted simulation is adapted from the full-length “Medical genetics” simulation.

Our cells have a very powerful system of checkpoints and alarm mechanisms to prevent serious mutations. But sometimes these mechanisms fail. In this simulation, you will learn about cancer and genes related to breast cancer development. Will you manage to help our patient and assess her risk of breast cancer development?

Learn the principles cancer development

Begin by reviewing some basic facts about cancer and its development. You will learn how gene mutations influence cells and lead to their uncontrolled growth into cancerous cells. Discover the difference between proto-oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes. What are their roles in cancer development? Find out how cancer can be heritable. 

Discover the influence of BRCA genes on breast cancer

BRCA genes strongly relate to breast cancer development. They account for up to 10% of all breast cancer cases. Discover their role in cell regulation and explain why mutations in these genes can be passed on biological children, increasing the risk of breast cancer in future generations.

Assess the risk of cancer development in Rosa

The knowledge gained throughout the simulation will help you assess the risk of breast cancer development in our patient - Rosa. Study family pedigree and results of gene analysis and draw conclusions on the nature of cancer and possibility that Rosa will have it in the future. 

Learning Objectives

At the end of this simulation, you will be able to:

  • Relate BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations to the genetic events that lead to cancer development
  • Describe the role of oncogenes and tumor suppressor proteins in cancer

Techniques in Lab

At the end of this simulation, you will be able to:

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