Novel Cancer Prevention Strategies in Individuals With Hereditary Cancer Syndromes: Focus on BRCA1, BRCA2, and Lynch Syndrome

Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book. 2024 Jun;44(3):e433576. doi: 10.1200/EDBK_433576.

Abstract

Germline pathogenic variants (PVs) in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes confer elevated risks of breast, ovarian, and other cancers. Lynch syndrome (LS) is associated with increased risks of multiple cancer types including colorectal and uterine cancers. Current cancer risk mitigation strategies have focused on pharmacologic risk reduction, enhanced surveillance, and preventive surgeries. While these approaches can be effective, they stand to be improved on because of either limited efficacy or undesirable impact on quality of life. The current review summarizes ongoing investigational efforts in cancer risk prevention strategies for patients with germline PVs in BRCA1, BRCA2, or LS-associated genes. These efforts span radiation, surgery, and pharmacology including vaccine strategies. Understanding the molecular events involved in the premalignant to malignant transformation in high-risk individuals may ultimately contribute significantly to novel prevention strategies.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • BRCA1 Protein* / genetics
  • BRCA2 Protein* / genetics
  • Colorectal Neoplasms, Hereditary Nonpolyposis* / genetics
  • Colorectal Neoplasms, Hereditary Nonpolyposis* / prevention & control
  • Female
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease*
  • Germ-Line Mutation
  • Humans
  • Neoplastic Syndromes, Hereditary / genetics
  • Neoplastic Syndromes, Hereditary / prevention & control

Substances

  • BRCA1 Protein
  • BRCA2 Protein
  • BRCA1 protein, human
  • BRCA2 protein, human