Abnormal ALK Gene and its implication in lung cancer
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Abnormal ALK Gene and its implication in lung cancer

Lung cancer is one of the most common and deadly types of cancer around the world. Smoking is a key factor contributing to lung cancer, responsible for up to 85% of cases.

Sometimes, there is a high chance of non-smokers developing lung cancer Symptoms are chronic coughing or wheezing, chest pain, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Early diagnosis through regular screenings and imaging tests can improve treatment outcomes for patients with lung cancer.

Effective treatments may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted therapy. It’s important for individuals at high risk for lung cancer to take preventive measures by quitting smoking and minimizing exposure to environmental toxins.

What is the ALK gene mutation in lung cancer?

The ALK (anaplastic lymphoma kinase) gene is responsible for producing a protein that helps regulate cell growth and division. In some cases of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the DNA in the ALK gene becomes altered or mutated, causing it to function abnormally.

This abnormal function can result in uncontrolled growth and division of lung cells, leading to the formation of tumors. The ALK mutation occurs in about 4-5% of NSCLC cases.

These drugs block the activity of the abnormal protein produced by the mutated gene, slowing or stopping tumour growth without damaging healthy cells. Identifying an ALK mutation can help doctors tailor treatment plans for lung cancer patients based on their individual genetic makeup.

What is the ALK gene?

ALK gene is stated as Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase. Function wise is a protein-coding gene that performs nervous system development. Mutations in this gene have been linked to various types of cancer, including lung cancer, neuroblastoma (a type of childhood cancer), and anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL).

The ALK gene encodes a receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) that sends signals across cells, regulating their growth and differentiation processes.  This is to inhibit altered ALK protein activity.

This process but how?

The alk gene provides instructions for making a protein that plays an important role in regulating cell growth and division. Under certain situations, the alk gene may become mutated or overactive which causes uncontrolled cell growth and the development of cancer.

Why gene editing technology

Gene editing tools like CRISPR-Cas9 (which has significant effects on personalized medicine) have provided scientists to remove the mutated alk gene from an individual’s DNA and replace it with normal sequences. This process allows the doctor to turn the genes on and off. Such a process is known as targeted therapy.

As a result, this can help slow or stop the progression of cancer to improve patient outcomes.

Last but not the least,  the immense potential of this gene editing technology in revolutionizing healthcare can’t be denied.

If not, how do other treatments work?

Ceritinib 150 mg is provided for the treatment of  NSCLC. Next, there is the possibility of side effects from the Ceritinib capsule150mg. These include headache, nausea, and vomiting.

Close monitoring by a medical professional is necessary throughout the course of treatment with this drug. Presents a promising mode of effective treatment even with its side effects.

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