Scientists have made a key breakthrough in the search for a better treatment for bone marrow cancer. For the first time they have identified the genes responsible for an aggressive form of the disease, called multiple myeloma. Having the genes can increase a person's the risk of developing the condition by 30 per cent, a study has revealed.

It was already known that relatives of those suffering from the incurable cancer were at increased risk, but until now, no responsible gene had been identified. It is now hoped the discovery will prompt improvements in diagnosis and treatment.
A study has revealed that relatives of those suffering from multiple myeloma, are four times more likely to develop cancerous cells

A study has revealed that relatives of those suffering from multiple myeloma, are four times more likely to develop cancerous cells Researchers from the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) used a technique called a genome wide association study to scan the DNA of 1,675 patients with multiple myeloma.

The same process was also carried out on around 5,900 healthy people. When results were compared scientists discovered that two regions of the DNA that were more common in people with multiple myeloma and were therefore linked to a higher chance of developing the disease.