GenomeThe full set of genes in an organism. Humans have an estimated 25,000 protein-encoding genes in their genome. sequencing offers a unique and compelling approach to cancer research. Because cancer is a condition when normal cell functions break down, studying geneA stretch of DNA that leads to the production of an RNA. The RNA is produced during the process of transcription. This RNA can be used to guide the formation of a protein via translation or can be used directly in the cell. patterns may reveal specific mutations that lead to specific diseases. A recent study published in Nature documents the gene sequencing of 38 different cases of multiple myelomaAlso: malignant plasmocytoma. A cancer of the bone marrow in which plasma cells overgrow the normal cells. Plasma cells are B-cells that are fully differentiated and are producing antibodies.. This research uncovered several notable parallels. Almost half of the cases had mutations in genes involving proteinOne of the four basic types of biomolecule. Proteins are polymers made up of strings of amino acids. Proteins serve many functions in organisms including transport of molecules, structure, cell adhesion and as signaling molecules such as hormones. Many transcription factors, including p53 and Rb are proteins. translationThe formation of protein by a ribosome reading a messenger RNA (mRNA). The RNA is produced in the nucleus via the process of transcription and shipped to the cytoplasm via the nuclear pores. The RNA is bound by ribosomes and the catalytic activity of the ribosomes allows the reading of the RNA and the formation of a protein based on the information encoded in the mRNA.. There were also significant instances of gene mutations involving histone methylation, blood coagulation or NF-κB signaling. These findings demonstrate the power afforded by DNAAbbreviation for deoxyribonucleic acid. Composed of very long strings of nucleotides, which are abbreviated as A, C, G and T. DNA is the storage form of our genetic material. All of the instructions for the production of proteins are encoded in our DNA. sequencing as a way to understand cancer development and improve cancer treatment.
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