WASHINGTON -- Researchers announced Tuesday they've discovered that a certain gene may provide important clues in the detection and treatment of breast cancer, especially for African-American women.

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The finding centers on a gene called BP-1. In a preliminary study, Dr. Patricia Berg, a researcher at George Washington University, found BP-1 was active -- or turned on -- in 80 percent of women with breast cancer.

"This is a very high number -- unusually high," Berg said. "And so we're pursuing that aspect of it as a possible target for therapy in these women."

In past studies, Berg found BP-1 in leukemia patients. But this is the first time it has been found to be active in breast cancer patients, especially black women. The study showed the gene was switched on in nine out of 10 black women with breast cancer.

Among white women, the rate was 57 percent. Researchers can't explain the disparity.

"That's a question we're researching in the laboratory," Berg said.

The research team hopes to work with a drug company to find a treatment.

"If we can use drugs that attack BP-1 and shut it off, perhaps the breast tumors can regress," said Dr. Arnold Schwartz, of George Washington University.

Christine Brunswick, of the National Breast Cancer Coalition, said the finding -- based on examining 46 patients -- doesn't mean a cure is around the corner.

"I would issue a cautionary note to women out there that the study was very small," Brunswick said. "It needs to be replicated."

Berg agreed but added that she hopes the study will put researchers further down the path to saving lives.

Researchers are trying to develop a blood test so the BP-1 gene can be detected more easily, rather than having to test breast tissue. In studies, they've also found two drugs that seem to turn off the gene. One of those drugs is being used for purposes not related to breast cancer.

Breast cancer is the leading cause of death among American women ages 33 to 55. It killed about 40,000 American women last year alone.