A woman with breast cancer has a BRCA1 mutation. What is the normal function of BRCA1?

The function of BRCA1 is primarily related to tumor suppression. The BRCA1 gene is crucial for the repair of DNA breaks through a process called homologous recombination. This repair mechanism helps maintain genomic stability, preventing the accumulation of mutations that could lead to cancer development. Individuals with mutations in the BRCA1 gene have an increased risk of developing breast and ovarian cancers because their cells are less able to effectively repair DNA damage.

In the context of breast cancer development, the normal function of BRCA1 as a tumor suppressor means it plays a key role in controlling cell cycle progression and ensuring that damaged cells do not continue to proliferate. When BRCA1 is mutated, the ability to suppress tumors effectively is compromised, leading to an increased risk of malignancy.

The other functions listed—angiogenesis, apoptosis, and cell adhesion—while they are also important in various cellular processes, are not directly related to the primary role of BRCA1. This distinction highlights the critical role of BRCA1 in maintaining cellular integrity and preventing cancer, which is central to understanding its importance in the context of breast cancer and genetic susceptibility.