3D technology ‘highlights early signs of breast cancer’

X-ray crystallography, a form of 3D scanning technology, could help to detect early signs of breast cancer, according to new research.

Scientists at the University of Vermont have been exploring how the technique can analyse specific strands of DNA to determine whether or not a woman is more likely to develop breast or ovarian cancer.

Researchers have used the technology to examine the behaviour of the enzyme polymerase theta (POLQ), which they believe could be a promising target to focus on in relation to the development of new cancer drugs.

The human body features more than 15 forms of polymerase, but POLQ has been identified as the only one that is overexpressed in breast and ovarian cancers, meaning that monitoring abnormal information regarding this part of the DNA could potentially help doctors to spot early signs of these illnesses.

Explaining the significance of this research, structural biologist at the university Sylvie Doublie commented: "The field focused on this enzyme is evolving. Having this new structure really helps inform this process."