Genetic Epidemiology of Mammographic Breast Density
Abstract
Mammographic breast density is a major risk factor for breast cancer that has a significant genetic component. Through linkage analysis of sibling-pairs, we proposed to identify chromosomal regions that may harbor the underlying genes. We collected blood, risk factors, and mammograms from women in a subset of 23 families (from a total of 426) that have been participating in an ongoing cohort study. We collected 384 blood samples (79% participation). We adopted a computer-assisted approach to refine the phenotype. The laboratory genotyped panels of 75 microsatellite markers distributed across on 8 chromosomes (5, 6, 9, 17, 18, 19, 20 and 21). Variance components linkage analyses were performed to estimate LOD scores for the unadjusted and adjusted (for weight and age) breast density trait. All analyses were two-point (only one marker and putative trait-associated locus examined at one time). The maximum LOD score for the genome screen (LOD=1.4) lies on chromosome 5, but this result is not statistically significant. At present, these findings are not strong enough to merit publication. However, with subsequent funding from the NCI we have expanded the size of the study and the breadth of the genome screen and are optimistic about our chances of success.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADA413360
Entities
People
- Thomas A. Sellers