-- Australian scientists said they have identified five genes they hope will improve treatments for people afflicted with brain cancer.

University of Sydney spokeswoman Dr. Kerrie McDonald said that once the tumors are removed from the patient, doctors can use these genes as guides to better match patients with various therapies.

She told the Australian Broadcasting Corp. the genetic discovery was good news for the 1,400 people in Australia diagnosed with brain cancer each year.

"What we are trying to do is find genes that can act as markers and flag a patient who will respond to a certain treatment," McDonald said. "Rather than use the 'one-treatment-fits-all' approach, we're trying to tailor-make or personalize the treatment."  // Copyright 2007 by United Press International



Publication date: 15 November 2007   

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