BRCA1 (BReast CAncer gene 1) and BRCA2 (BReast CAncer gene 2) are genes that produce proteins that help repair damaged DNA. Everyone has two copies of each of these genes—one copy inherited from each parent.

What is the difference between BRCA1 and BRCA2?

Although mutations on both genes are related to increased risk of breast cancer, they are two entirely separate genes. BRCA1, identified in 1990, is on chromosome 17, while BRCA2, identified in 1994, is on chromosome 13. Both mutations increase the risk of ovarian cancer, as well as pancreatic cancer.

What does BRCA1 and BRCA2 do?

The BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are two of the most common genes known to be associated with an increased risk of cancer, most notably breast cancer and ovarian cancer. When working properly, BRCA1 and BRCA2 are tumor-suppressor genes that protect the body from developing certain cancers.