Mary-Claire King

Definition

Mary-Claire King is a prominent American geneticist known for her groundbreaking research in human genetics and breast cancer. She is best recognized for her discovery of the BRCA1 gene, which is linked to hereditary breast and ovarian cancer, significantly influencing cancer research and genetic testing. Her work has advanced the understanding of how genetic factors contribute to cancer, particularly in the context of nuclear receptors and steroid signaling.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mary-Claire King's work led to the identification of BRCA1 in 1990, which has since become crucial for understanding inherited breast and ovarian cancers.
2. Her research has facilitated the development of genetic testing for individuals at high risk of developing these cancers, enabling proactive medical decisions.
3. King was one of the first scientists to advocate for the use of genetics in public health, emphasizing its importance in disease prevention.
4. In addition to her work on cancer genetics, she has also made significant contributions to the study of human evolutionary genetics.
5. Mary-Claire King received numerous awards for her contributions to science, including being elected to the National Academy of Sciences.

Review Questions

• How did Mary-Claire King's discovery of BRCA1 impact the field of cancer research?
  • Mary-Claire King's discovery of BRCA1 had a profound impact on cancer research by establishing a clear genetic link between inherited mutations and increased risk for breast and ovarian cancers. This finding paved the way for subsequent studies on other cancer-related genes and opened up new avenues for genetic testing and preventive measures. As a result, families with a history of these cancers can now make informed decisions regarding their health and screening options.
• Discuss the relationship between nuclear receptors and Mary-Claire King's contributions to understanding cancer genetics.
  • Nuclear receptors play a critical role in how hormones influence gene expression, which is vital in understanding cancer mechanisms. Mary-Claire King's research focused on BRCA1, a gene whose product interacts with various nuclear receptors, linking hormonal signaling to breast cancer development. Her work emphasized the importance of studying these interactions to unravel the complexities of cancer biology and develop targeted therapies.
• Evaluate how Mary-Claire King's advocacy for genetics in public health might shape future approaches to disease prevention and treatment.
  • Mary-Claire King's advocacy for integrating genetics into public health strategies has significant implications for future disease prevention and treatment approaches. By promoting genetic testing and awareness of hereditary cancer risks, she has encouraged healthcare systems to adopt more personalized medicine practices. This shift could lead to tailored screening protocols based on individual genetic profiles, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reducing the burden of hereditary diseases on healthcare systems globally.

Related terms

BRCA1: A gene that produces a protein responsible for repairing damaged DNA, mutations in which are associated with an increased risk of breast and ovarian cancers.

Nuclear Receptors: Proteins within cells that regulate gene expression in response to hormones and other signaling molecules, playing a key role in steroid hormone signaling.

Steroid Hormones: Hormones derived from cholesterol that regulate a wide range of physiological processes, including development, metabolism, and immune function.