FAQ: What are the BRCA2 and BRCA1 genes, and what causes the mutation in them?

These two genes produce proteins that are involved in maintaining and regulating cell growth, cell division and repairing damage acquired in genetic DNA material. Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2, which are inherited, lead to reduced activity of the proteins. As a result, DNA defects cannot be repaired, and the risk of breast cancer and ovarian cancer are both increased.