Women have higher risks of lung cancer. This may be due to the presence of two active genes of a receptor protein GRPR, activated by nicotine to stimulate lung cell growth. These genes are present on the X chromosome. Though one copy of the genes is usually inactive on the X chromosome, the gene of this receptor protein avoids inactivation in certain females. GRPR mRNA could be used as a molecular marker to identify individuals at high risk for lung cancer.
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