Three New Genes Involved in Melanoma Identified

Thus far, experts were able to establish that the development of the deadliest form of skin cancer, called melanoma, is favored by five pigmentation genes and three 'mole formation' gene. In a new study, experts find three more mutations involved in this process.

The research is the first to evidence genetic mutations that cause melanoma without being related to skin pigmentation or moles. Common risk factors for the condition include fair or easily-burned skin, blue eyes, blond or red hair types, as well as a family history.

“These intriguing results provide deeper understanding of the causes of melanoma and provide a potential new approach to identify people most at risk of developing melanoma and other cancers,” says Leeds University Cancer Research UK director of cancer information, Lesley Walker.

The first of three new genes was found in a gene linked to narcolepsy, the second one in a gene involved in DNA repair, while the third one was found in a gene involved in controlling cell spread by triggering automatic cell death.