BRCA2 gene

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In physiology, BRCA2 gene (BRCA-2 gene) is "a tumor suppressor gene located on human chromosome 13 at locus 13q12.3. Mutations of this gene are associated with the formation of familial breast and ovarian cancer. It encodes a large, nuclear protein that is an essential component of DNA repair pathways, suppressing the formation of gross chromosomal rearrangements."[1]

Women who have BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes, especially if there is a familial history of breast cancer, may be candidates for prophylactic mastectomy. [2]

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