Scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery in the fight against breast cancer. They have identified a mechanism that causes cancer cells to become dormant and then “wake up” years later, leading to a relapse. This finding offers hope for new treatments that can prevent breast cancer from returning after initial treatment.
The study focused on oestrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer, which accounts for 80% of all breast cancers. ER+ breast cancer cells rely on oestrogen to divide and grow. Treatment typically involves a combination of therapies and surgery tailored to each patient’s needs. However, this treatment can trigger changes in some cancer cells, causing them to enter a dormant state instead of dying off.
Researchers from The Institute of Cancer Research in London have now uncovered the mechanism behind these changes. They have identified an enzyme called G9a that plays a crucial role in cancer cell dormancy. By inhibiting G9a, the researchers were able to prevent cancer cells from becoming dormant and also kill the cells that were already in a dormant state. This breakthrough opens up new possibilities for developing treatments that can effectively stop breast cancer altogether.
Breast cancer is a significant health concern, with around 55,000 women and 400 men being diagnosed with the disease in the UK every year. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment. It is important to be aware of the symptoms and regularly check your breasts for any changes. Look out for new lumps or thickening in your breast or armpit, changes in the size, shape, or feel of your breast, skin changes such as puckering or dimpling, fluid leaking from the nipple, and changes in the position of the nipple.
This research brings hope to the millions of people affected by breast cancer. Understanding the mechanisms behind cancer cell dormancy is a crucial step towards finding ways to prevent relapses and ensure that patients can live without the fear of the disease returning. Further studies and developments in this field will be essential in the ongoing fight against breast cancer.
BREAKTHROUGH DISCOVERY: Cancer Cells Found to Hibernate and Return Years Later
In a groundbreaking study, researchers have identified a crucial mechanism used by cancer cells to evade therapy. These cells have the ability to remain dormant, hibernating until they “wake up” years later and start rapidly dividing once again. This discovery has significant implications for cancer treatment and prevention.
The study, funded by Cancer Research UK, aims to develop targeted therapies that specifically address these dormant cells. If successful, patients can have peace of mind knowing that their cancer will not return without the need for prolonged hormone therapy. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize the way we approach cancer treatment.
Dr. Tayyaba Jiwani, science engagement manager at Cancer Research UK, emphasized the importance of this research. While breast cancer survival rates have improved over the years, there are still over 11,000 deaths from this type of cancer annually in the UK. The study highlights the fact that cancer cells can lie dormant in the body for extended periods before reawakening and causing a recurrence.
Using an innovative approach to analyze the genetics of these dormant cells, the researchers gained valuable insights into the mechanisms behind dormancy. Although the study is still in its early stages, the findings have already identified potential new targets for the development of innovative treatments. This could be a game-changer in preventing breast cancer from coming back.
This groundbreaking research brings hope to millions of cancer patients worldwide. With further investigation and development, we may finally have the tools to eradicate cancer once and for all. Stay tuned for more updates on this promising breakthrough.
