Scientists say they have successfully identified a key molecule in the spread of breast and lung cancer, which, when disabled, can prevent the progression of this disease to other parts of the body. According to Science Daily, researchers at Imperial College London announced in a paper that the findings of this new research could help scientists find both treatment methods for the spread of cancer to other parts of the body and ways to measure the extent of this disease in different areas of the body. During tumor growth, cancer cells can detach from the primary source and spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system. This method of cancer spread is known as metastasis. Researchers identified a gene called MARK4 by testing breast and lung cancer cells, which gives cancer cells the ability to detach from the primary tumor and move within the body. Dr. Justin Stebbing, one of the senior authors of the paper who teaches at the Imperial College School of Surgery and Cancer, states that when cancer cells spread in the body, treatment becomes very difficult: 'The ability of cancer to spread in the body has a significant impact on patient survival. Although we currently know very little about how and why some cancers spread in the body, this research could greatly help in understanding this process.' Researchers also found that a molecule called miR-515-5p can inhibit the activity of the MARK4 gene and disable it. The inactivation of this protein means preventing the spread of cancer cells. After confirming this theory in laboratory mice, researchers were able to show the inverse relationship between these two in human cancer cells as well. Statistics indicate that patients with high levels of MARK4 protein and low levels of miR-515-5p had lower chances of cancer treatment compared to others. Currently, researchers are looking to see if they can develop a drug that targets the MARK4 gene and disables it. They also want to understand whether the characteristics of this gene can indicate whether cancer will spread in a patient's body or not.
Identification of a Molecule that Prevents the Spread of Lung and Breast Cancer
Researchers at Imperial College London have identified a molecule, MARK4, that plays a crucial role in the metastasis of breast and lung cancer. The discovery could lead to new treatment methods and better understanding of cancer spread, which is vital for improving patient survival rates.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
Researchers at Imperial College London identified a molecule called MARK4 that facilitates the spread of breast and lung cancer. They found that inhibiting this molecule could prevent metastasis and improve treatment outcomes.
- The MARK4 gene allows cancer cells to detach from tumors and spread.
- A molecule named miR-515-5p can inhibit MARK4, potentially leading to new cancer treatments.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
Cancer metastasis is a major factor in cancer mortality, making research into its mechanisms vital for developing effective treatments.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
Translated from the original and edited for English readers. View original source →
Translation confidence: 90%