DNA methylation patterns ‘could help to detect bowel cancer’

Researchers have discovered a potential new method of detecting bowel cancer early via analysis of DNA.

Scientists from Cancer Research UK's Cambridge Research Institute have found tumours can be accurately identified by studying the process of DNA methylation in cells.

By examining the DNA methylation patterns of two specific genes, SFRP2 and IGF2, it was found that tumour cells can be distinguished from benign polyps with an accuracy rate of 90 percent.

It is hoped that these findings can pave the way for a DNA test that can help to diagnose the disease at the earliest possible stage, thus improving survival prognoses.

Dr Lesley Walker, Cancer Research UK's director of cancer information, added: "Our research has played an important part in the excellent progress being made in the treatment of bowel cancer – the five-year survival rates for bowel cancer have doubled over the last 40 years."

Earlier this month, another Cancer Research UK-funded study uncovered a possible method of preventing bowel cancer cells from repairing themselves by blocking the activity of a protein.