Molecule may play a role in the growth and spread of cancer, study shows
Over the years, innovative treatments have been developed to address the rising prevalence of many different types of cancer.
Over the years, innovative treatments have been developed to address the rising prevalence of many different types of cancer. Women with breast cancer, for instance, may buy Tamoxifen in order to help slow the proliferation of the disease.
A study from Queen Mary, University of London, has revealed that a molecule called Met may play an important role in stimulating the growth and spread of tumors. According to researchers, moving Met from the inside of the cell to the outside could slow the progression of cancer and even lead to tumor shrinkage.
Lead author Stephanie Kermorgant explained that the molecule has been found in many different types of cancers, including those of the breast and lung. Tumors with higher levels of Met tend to be the most aggressive, she added.
"Previous research has indicated that Met has a role in the development of cancer," Kermorgant said. "Our study shows that it's not only the presence of the molecule, but also where it is in the cell that may promote cancer. We've also shown that we may be able to take advantage of this discovery to design new types of drugs."
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