Researchers found that several mutations could lead to tumours, known as medulloblastoma, suggesting that they may be genetically distinct, with different prognoses.

About two-thirds of patients live five years past diagnosis, but many suffer lasting physical or intellectual side effects from their treatments.

But drugs tailored to a tumour’s genetic profile have the potential to save more patients while reducing side effects.

Professor Yoon-Jae Cho, of Stanford University, said: “Our plan is, within one to two years, to be able to offer kids a new set of compounds with a clear biological rationale.

“For some of these kids we don’t have many, if any, effective and durable treatment options.”

Article source: http://www.scotsman.com/genetic-profile-clue-to-cancer-1-2426989