A review of gene mutations, conventional testing and novel approaches to cancer screening

Abstract

Cancer is a genetic disease caused due to mutations in the tumor suppressor genes or oncogenes involved in the cell cycle regulation. It may include mutations that may be inherited or acquired during one‟s lifetime and affect single gene or multiple genes, chromosomes and their protein expression patterns, ultimately leading to a loss of control over the cell cycle and culminating in uncontrolled cell growth. With the tremendous increase in global cancer burden and early detection being the key to cure, it has become imperative that the genes be studied and new genetic and biochemical testing techniques be utilized. In this review, we have looked at various mutations involved in common cancer-causing genes, their role under normal physiological conditions, mechanisms of mutation and their occurrence in different types of cancers. Also, the review focuses on conventional and novel approaches for genetic and biochemical testing, the techniques used and their advantages and limitations.