A WRN Nonsense Mutation, p.R1406X, is Not a Risk Factor of Breast Cancer

Abstract

WRN/RECQL2 plays a crucial role in DNA replication and the maintenance of genome stability. Inactivating mutations in RECQL2 lead to Werner syndrome, a rare autosomal recessive chromosomal disorder characterized by premature aging and associated with genetic instability and increased cancer risk. Whether heterozygous WRN mutations are associated with breast cancer risk has been a matter for debate. In the present study, we identified p.R1406X in the WRN gene in one family case with breast/ovarian cancer using whole exome sequencing. We have investigated the prevalence of this WRN mutation in a total of 828 breast cancer cases, 273 ovarian cancer cases and 445 controls from Bashkortostan Republic (Russia). Our results suggest that the p.R1406X mutation in the WRN gene is not associated with high breast cancer risk.