Researchers at UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center have made a significant discovery in understanding why women of color, particularly those of African descent, face higher rates of aggressive breast cancer. The study, published in Nature Communications, identifies a specific gene called DAXX that plays a crucial role in the development of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC).
TNBC disproportionately affects women of African ancestry, occurring at rates two to three times higher than in white women. The research team found that DAXX mutations were more prevalent in women of African descent, explaining the higher incidence of TNBC in this population.
This breakthrough came from analyzing genetic data from over 180,000 breast cancer patients worldwide, making it one of the largest and most diverse breast cancer studies to date. The comprehensive approach allowed researchers to identify genetic variations specific to different racial and ethnic groups.
The study’s findings have important implications for developing targeted therapies and improving screening methods for women at higher risk of developing TNBC. By focusing on diverse populations, researchers can develop more personalized and effective treatments, potentially reducing the mortality gap in breast cancer outcomes among different racial groups.
This research not only advances our understanding of breast cancer genetics but also highlights the importance of inclusive research practices in addressing health disparities. It demonstrates why studying diverse populations is crucial to fully understand the genetic basis of diseases like cancer.
The discovery offers hope for more effective treatments for women of color facing aggressive breast cancer and paves the way for improved risk assessment and early detection strategies.
See “UC Davis researchers help decode the cause of aggressive breast cancer in women of color” (December 11, 2024)
