The Role of Genetics in Breast and Reproductive Cancers

This volume will explore the latest findings in research into the genetics of breast and reproductive cancers, covering the epidemiological aspects of these cancers, their etiology, the effect of environment on genes and cancer etiology, and how research in this area can lead to development of preventative measures and treatments.

Piri L. Welcsh, PhD is a Research Assistant Professor in the Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Genetics at the University of Washington.  She received her PhD in Molecular Genetics from The Ohio State University.  It was during this time that the seminal paper in which Dr. Mary-Claire King demonstrated that a single gene on chromosome 17, later known as BRCA1, was responsible for many breast and ovarian cancers was published.   During Postdoctoral studies at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, Dr. Welcsh worked under the guidance of Dr. Anne M. Bowcock and collaborated with Drs. Mary-Claire King and Francis Collins in an attempt to clone BRCA1.  Shortly after the gene encoding BRCA1 was identified, Dr. Welcsh joined the research group of Dr. King at the University of Washington where she conducted studies designed to elucidate the biological function of BRCA1.  She is currently an independent investigator  whose current research goals include the identification and characterization of both genetic and epigenetic mechanisms critical to the development of breast and ovarian cancer.