The researchers plugged these factors into a computer formula that identified the gene mutations most likely to be linked with cancer. Karchin was pleased that the system was highly successful at finding harmful mutations during the blind tests in Monteiro's lab. She believes it has a promising future. "Genetic counselors now base some of their advice on family history," she said. "But family histories are often incomplete. If we can give genetic counselors another tool, it could be very helpful to a lot of people."