BBC-NCRN Breast Cancer Genetics Study
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Identification and Characterization of Breast Cancer Susceptibility Genes Using the British Breast Cancer Study (BBC-NCRN)
IRAS ID
363422
Contact name
Richard Houlston
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
ICR
Duration of Study in the UK
5 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
This study aims to uncover new genetic factors linked to breast cancer using samples from 25,000 women diagnosed with the disease, collected through the BBC-NCRN study. These samples, including buffy coat and DNA, will be sent from the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) and Oxford University to the Regeneron Genetics Center (RGC) in the USA for advanced genetic analysis. RGC will extract DNA, perform genotyping, and sequence the samples to identify new cancer susceptibility genes and better understand known ones, such as BRCA1, BRCA2, ATM, CHEK2, and PALB2. The genetic data from these cases will be compared with data from 500,000 healthy individuals in the UK Biobank, previously sequenced by RGC, to pinpoint differences that may explain breast cancer risk.
All samples sent to RGC will be anonymized, ensuring privacy, with RGC acting as a data processor. Processed data will return to the ICR for analysis. Although the BBC-NCRN study ended years ago, this project seeks permission to use these samples and transfer them to RGC. By partnering with RGC, which will cover sequencing costs, this study overcomes funding barriers to conduct large-scale genetic research. Discovering new genetic variants and understanding their role in breast cancer could lead to better prevention, early detection, and personalized treatments, ultimately improving outcomes for women at risk.REC name
South Central - Hampshire B Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/SC/0400
Date of REC Opinion
15 Jan 2026
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion