Genetic map of a cancerous bladder created

HOUSTON, May 6 (UPI) -- U.S.-led cancer researchers have created a physical-genetic map depicting a cancerous bladder's molecular journey from normal cells to malignancy.

Scientists at The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center said by geographically relating an organ's varied tissues to their underlying genetic variation or regulation, the team also identified a crucial new category of genes that launches the process of cancer development.

"These 'forerunner genes' are the ignition key that starts the engine of carcinogenesis," said senior author Dr. Bogdan Czerniak. "Discovery of forerunner genes opens an entirely new field of investigation to identify biomarkers for the early detection and prevention of cancer. Inactivation of these genes occurs during cancer's invisible stage, when it is undetectable by traditional means."

The research model can be used to study other cancers of the epithelium -- the tissue that lines the surfaces and cavities of the body's organs, the researchers said. Epithelial cancers, or carcinomas, make up 80 percent of all cancers.

The 29-page paper will take up half of the space devoted to original research in the July issue of the journal Laboratory Investigation.