DiYES International School – Childhood kidney cancers, particularly Wilms tumour, are a major concern in pediatric oncology. Recent research has provided a groundbreaking approach to understanding the development of Wilms tumour, a type of kidney cancer that affects children, primarily under the age of five. By focusing on the genetic factors that influence its development, scientists are hoping to develop more precise treatments tailored to the genetic makeup of each child. This research offers hope for improving outcomes while minimizing the side effects of treatment.
Wilms tumour, one of the most common types of kidney cancer in children, affects around 85 children each year in the UK. While it can occur as a result of a spontaneous genetic mutation, around 30% of children with Wilms tumour have an inherited genetic predisposition that increases their risk of developing this cancer. Researchers from the Wellcome Sanger Institute, Great Ormond Street Hospital, and other collaborating institutions have mapped genetic variations in children diagnosed with Wilms tumour, shedding light on how inherited genetic changes may influence tumour development.
This pioneering study, published in Cancer Discovery, found that genetic predispositions not only impact how tumours develop but also affect the tumour’s response to treatments. Furthermore, these inherited genetic changes may increase the risk of developing secondary cancers later in life. By understanding these genetic differences, doctors could tailor treatment plans and screening programs to ensure each child receives the most effective care for their specific genetic makeup.
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Researchers have found that genetic predispositions result in varying tumour development pathways. In children who are genetically predisposed to Wilms tumour, the specific genes affected and the timing of their activation during development in the womb can lead to different tumour growth patterns. This study identified a range of genetic factors that may influence tumour formation, such as mutations in genes like WT1 and TRIM28.
Driver mutations in these genes can contribute to the development of Wilms tumour and increase the likelihood of secondary cancers in children with certain genetic predispositions. Some genetic mutations lead to the accumulation of additional changes in DNA, further promoting tumour growth. These findings are crucial as they suggest potential targets for drug development, which could help prevent tumour formation and reduce the risk of secondary cancers.
In addition to its effects on tumour formation, genetic predisposition also plays a significant role in shaping the tissue structure of the kidneys. This can help explain why some children with genetic predispositions develop non-cancerous kidney growths before progressing to malignant tumours. The researchers believe that the altered tissue architecture may serve as an early indicator of potential cancer development.
By mapping these changes, researchers have discovered patterns that suggest certain predispositions can lead to specific tumour development pathways. The ability to identify these patterns opens the door to personalized medicine and more effective treatment strategies.
The study’s findings have significant implications for the future of Wilms tumour treatment. Researchers suggest that by understanding the genetic factors that contribute to Wilms tumour, it will be possible to create personalized treatment plans for children. These tailored plans could help avoid over-treatment, reducing unnecessary side effects, and ensure that each child receives the right amount of care.
The research also suggests that genetic testing and early screening for specific genetic mutations could allow for more effective monitoring and earlier intervention, leading to better outcomes. Additionally, the identification of the precise genetic changes that lead to cancer development could potentially pave the way for prevention strategies in the future.
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Dr. Taryn Treger, co-first author of the study, highlighted the importance of understanding how specific genetic changes influence cancer development. By predicting the additional genetic changes that lead to childhood kidney cancers such as Wilms tumour, researchers may be able to develop treatments that target cancer formation at its earliest stages. This could prevent the development of cancer altogether, making treatments more effective and reducing the need for invasive procedures.
Phil Brace, Chief Executive of The Little Princess Trust, echoed the importance of funding research that seeks to reduce the long-term effects of childhood cancer treatments. “Childhood cancer treatment can have substantial adverse effects,” he said, emphasizing the importance of improving survival rates while minimizing side effects.
Professor Sam Behjati, co-senior author of the study, expressed optimism about the potential to personalize treatment based on genetic information. He noted that the ability to tailor treatment plans and screening programs would allow for more precise care, reducing unnecessary treatments while improving outcomes for children with Wilms tumour.
The research into childhood kidney cancers, particularly Wilms tumour, offers promising new avenues for improving care and treatment, moving us closer to a future where cancer treatments are customized to each child’s unique genetic makeup.
