Cancer and the genetic revolution.
BACKGROUND
The Human Genome Project is nearing completion, providing us with a detailed description of our molecular makeup. As cancer is a disease induced by changes in genes, the Project will be an important tool to enhance our understanding and improve treatment of cancer.


OBJECTIVE
The potential outcomes of the new technologies for cancer prediction, profiling and individualising treatments will be examined and examples provided.


CONCLUSIONS
Evolving technologies will allow clinicians to use the information provided by the Genome Project to identify individuals at high risk of developing cancer and to decide on the best treatment. The information will also give guidance as to the best treatment for an existing cancer.
Warner
B J
BJ
Peter MacCallum Cancer Institute, Melbourne, Victoria.
McArthur
G A
GA
D016045:Human Genome Project; D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000235:genetics* / Q000628:therapy