Discovery of method to 'neutralize' the spread of cancer cells

Scientists at the Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Australia, have just found a method that can prevent the spread of cancer cells, bringing hope of saving thousands of lives each year.

In a new study, researchers at the Garvan Institute said they had identified a protein called MCL-1 that plays a key role in the spread of breast cancer cells. They also found a way to disable this cell, as well as increase the effectiveness of current cancer drugs.

The discovery opens the door to new treatments for breast cancer, as current treatments often fail once cancer cells begin to spread. “MCL-1 is known to be a survival factor for cancer cells, but until now, no one has shown that it helps cancer cells spread. We have found a way to stop the spread by disabling MCL-1,” said lead researcher Dr Samantha Oakes. The findings could be used to shrink tumours and stop the spread of cancer cells before patients undergo surgery, she said.

The study was conducted on mice with simulated human breast cancer cells. Dr Oakes believes the trial will produce similar results in breast cancer patients. Human trials are expected to begin within five years. About 3,000 women and men die from breast cancer each year in Australia.

According to Hanoi Moi