Certain Protein May Play Role in Cancer Development

Unlocking the mystery of just how and why the body’s programming runs amok to create cancer has long been the focus of study. Now, researchers at Texas A&M say they may have uncovered insights into the role a certain stem cell protein plays in the development of breast and prostate cancer. Their work may one day pave the way for more effective long-term treatments that prevent recurrence entirely.

At issue is the FGF protein. This stem cell has 22 different types. Nearly every single one of the body’s cells expresses this protein. The research out of Texas A&M traces the life cycle of FGF protein cells and has provided a greater understanding of how the protein works to foster cell growth normally and what occurs when cancer is formed. FGF has long been shown to play a role in the development of prostate and breast cancer. Having a better understanding of what makes the protein work in the body may enable the development of more effective cancer treatments down the road.

During the study, researchers looked at the pathways FGF uses to activate stem cells or keep them dormant. This understanding of the mechanism in which cancer is formed is hoped to open the door for treatments that may disrupt the communication abilities of mutated FGF proteins. They hope is that by disrupting communication, cancer recurrence may be prevented after initial treatments.

While applications of the findings remain for the future, after much more study, the implications are clear. Researchers firmly say if a means can be developed to control cancerous stem cells and keep them dormant, the disease can be tackled.

The Texas A&M study focused on the stem cells associated with breast and prostate cancer, but researchers note the implications may extend to other forms of the disease, as well.