Molecular Studies and Therapeutic Approaches on BRCA-associated Cancers

The field of molecular studies and therapeutic approaches on BRCA-positive cancers has garnered significant attention due to the critical role of the BRCA1 gene in DNA repair, cell cycle regulation, and genome stability. Mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes markedly elevate the risk of developing breast, ovarian, prostate, and other cancers, often at younger ages compared to non-carriers. Current statistics indicate that 55%–72% of women with a harmful BRCA1 variant and 45%–69% with a harmful BRCA2 variant will develop breast cancer by the age of 70–80. Similarly, 39%–44% of women with a BRCA1 variant and 11%–17% with a BRCA2 variant will develop ovarian cancer within the same age range. Despite the availability of four FDA-approved poly ADP ribose polymerase inhibitors for advanced BRCA1/2 cancers, recent studies have identified features in recurrent tumors that enhance their ability to repair treatment-induced DNA damage. This highlights the ongoing challenges in effectively treating BRCA1/2-positive cancers and underscores the need for a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms. Additionally, the BRCA1/2 associated proteins have emerged as equally important players in breast cancer due to their role in multiple cellular processes and the maintenance of genome stability. Understanding the function of these proteins not only enhances our knowledge of breast cancer biology and drug resistance, it also offers an opportunity to develop new therapeutics, especially for the resistant BRCA1/2 breast cancers.

This research topic aims to explore and elucidate the molecular mechanisms and therapeutic strategies for BRCA1/2-associated cancers. The primary objectives include investigating the physiological roles of BRCA genes, understanding the impact of BRCA mutations on cancer development, and identifying effective therapeutic interventions. Specific questions to be addressed include the mechanisms of resistance and recurrence in BRCA therapy, the inheritance patterns of BRCA mutations, and the potential for early detection and prevention.

To gather further insights into the complexities of BRCA1/2-associated cancers, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- The role of BRCA genes in various physiological processes
- The impact of BRCA variants on breast and ovarian cancer development
- Mechanisms of mutation and inheritance of BRCA genes
- Strategies for early detection of BRCA mutations
- Resistance and recurrence mechanisms in BRCA therapy
- Comprehensive understanding of BRCA1/2-related cancer mechanisms
- Novel therapeutic interventions and their molecular mechanisms
-The role of BRCA1/2 associated proteins in breast cancer