NCI Approves Multi-Site Studies for Inherited Factors for Breast and Prostate Cancer; other CGN news

Two multi-site pilot projects that will test the Cancer Genetics Network (CGN) have been approved by the National Cancer Institute (NCI). The first study, “Genetic and Environmental Modifiers of Penetrance in BRCA1 and BRCA2 Mutation Carriers,” will examine the effects of radiation exposure and hormonal factors in breast cancer gene mutation carriers. The project will also search for genes that may modify the occurrence of BRCA1- and BRCA2-associated cancers by examining genes involved in estrogen biosynthesis and catabolism, androgen metabolism, carcinogen metabolism, and DNA repair. The study is a collaborative effort between the University of Pennsylvania, Georgetown University, Duke University, and the University of California, Irvine. The lead investigator is Barbara Weber, M.D., at the University of Pennsylvania. The combined centers will study approximately 1000 BRCA1/2 mutation carriers.

The second pilot project focuses on genetic factors in prostate cancer, and will collect family history, risk factor information, and biological specimens from prostate cancer patients and families. This is a collaborative investigation of UC Irvine, Johns Hopkins University, Duke University, Emory University, University of North Carolina, and University of Pennsylvania. The combined centers will study approximately 600 cases (72% population-based) of sporadic and familial prostate cancer.

These two projects are the first in a series of projects to be funded by the NCI through the CGN. Projects currently being planned by CGN investigators include risk prediction, model validation, sib-pair analysis of colon cancer, and examination of recruitment factors. Future deadlines for pilot project proposals are July 12, 1999 and November 15, 1999. Investigators at any of the CGN sites may submit proposals. CGN pilot projects should be designed to test the network, requiring a multi-center approach, use of the core CGN database of patient information, and resources that are not otherwise available without the CGN. MACGN investigators should contact Gloria Petersen for more information, 410-955-7497, gpeterse@jhsph.edu.

Transmission of Data Across the Network a Success

The first pilot transmission of CGN data occurred without a hitch in the first week of June. The eight CGN centers sent anonymous patient data via the Internet, through secured channels, to the core CGN database that is housed at the Informatics Center at UC Irvine. These data contain basic information about CGN participants, including cancer history, family history of cancer and other demographic factors. All identifying information is removed from the data before transmission.

In the future, after patient recruitment has been fully developed, the core CGN database will be a significant resource for contacting eligible people who may be willing to volunteer for cancer research studies. The database will allow researchers to identify potential candidates from around the country who fit the broad criteria for their study. The initial contact between investigators and potential study participants will occur through the local sites, to preserve patient confidentiality. Eligible participants will be told by the local sites about specific studies, or that an investigator would like to contact them. The names of consenting participants will then be given to the investigator for follow-up contact. The CGN core database promises to be an exciting resource for multi-center research studies in the future.

On the Local MACGN Front

MACGN held its first annual Clinical Cancer Genetics CME program on May 8, 1999. Over 100 professionals attended.
Patients are more likely to adhere to screening program after genetic counseling. This was the result of a study presented by Karen Johnson, genetic counselor for the Johns Hopkins Cancer Risk Assessment Service and MACGN, at the 1999 American Society of Clinical Oncology meeting (see article on page 7).
MACGN continues to develop its network of physicians and other health care providers in the Mid-Atlantic region.