X marks the chromosome for lung cancer susceptibility
A gene on the X chromosome may explain why lung cancer develops in women earlier and more often than in men (J Natl Cancer Inst 2000;92:24-33). Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh analysed the expression of gastrin-releasing peptide receptor (GRPR) in men and women with various smoking histories. The GRPR gene, located on the X chromosome, produces the receptor, which in turn leads bronchial cells to proliferate in response to gastrin-releasing peptide. This is thought to be the mechanism by which smoking may cause lung cancer. Previous studies have shown that lung cancer develops in women after less smoking exposure than in men, and more often in women who do not smoke than in male nonsmokers. This study detected GRPR expression in airway cells and tissues of more female than male nonsmokers and short-term smokers. As well, female smokers had GRPR expression in airways after less exposure to smoking than male smokers. This may explain women's increased susceptibility to lung cancer.
Audio interview with Nobel winner now on eCMAJ
FIGURE A half-hour audio interview with Dr. James Orbinski, the first Canadian president of Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF), is now available on eCMAJ (www.cma.ca/cmaj). In December, Orbinski delivered the acceptance speech when MSF received the Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of its pioneering humanitarian work on several continents (www.msf.org/events/1999/nobel/index.htm).
Originally founded by French physicians in 1971, MSF in now "on the ground" during almost all major conflicts. The organization now has 2000 volunteers working in 80 countries. Although MSF is best known for its work during high-intensity conflicts, Orbinski stresses that much of its work is done in stable areas that simply have little or no access to health care.
In the interview, eCMAJ Editor-in-Chief John Hoey questions Orbinski about the nature of his organization's work and other issues. "What distinguishes MSF from other organizations," says Orbinski, "is our refusal to remain silent."