Daijiworld Media Network – New York

New York, Mar 30: New research has found that oestrogen-induced DNA damage in individuals carrying BRCA1 mutations may play a crucial role in the initiation of cancer, while also pointing to a potential dietary strategy to reduce risk.

Carriers of BRCA1 mutations face a significantly higher lifetime risk of breast and ovarian cancers. Around 70 per cent of BRCA1-related breast cancers are classified as triple-negative, lacking key receptors, and are believed to originate from specific hormone receptor-negative cells. However, the mechanisms driving cancer development in these cells have remained unclear.

The study revealed that Oestrogen and its metabolites can directly interfere with DNA replication in affected cells. Researchers found that these compounds hinder replication processes and cause DNA damage, including breaks and large deletions, which can trigger cancer-causing mutations.

In addition to internal hormonal factors, environmental exposure was also identified as a risk contributor. The herbicide Atrazine was found to similarly disrupt DNA replication and promote genomic instability in BRCA1 mutation cells, indicating that environmental and biological factors may jointly increase cancer risk.

Importantly, these damaging effects were observed in cells that do not respond to hormone-based therapies, highlighting the complexity of treating such cancers, particularly triple-negative types.

Researchers also explored preventive measures and identified Indole-3-carbinol, a compound found in certain vegetables, as a promising candidate. It was shown to reduce DNA damage and stabilise replication processes in cells exposed to oestrogen.

The findings suggest that changes in oestrogen metabolism—whether due to internal or environmental influences—can drive DNA damage in vulnerable individuals. They also highlight the potential of dietary interventions as a preventive approach for those with BRCA1 mutations.