Metabolic and H-ras polymorphisms in genetic susceptibility

STUDIES OF FAMILIES with cancer have resulted in the successful identification of tumor suppressor genes directly involved in transformation. These genes, while critically important in understanding tumorigenesis, are rare in the general population. Recent studies have identified another class of genes that may be of greater public health significance. These genes alter the rate at which mutations occur. Population studies have identified variants in the phase I and II detoxification loci and the H-ras-1 oncogene that dramatically increase individual cancer risk. Because these variants have a much higher frequency, they may account for a significant component of the attributable risk of cancer in the population.