The biggest challenge for oncologists and researchers is metastasis or the spread of cancerous cells. The National Cancer Society claims that’s 90% of cancer related deaths are in fact due to metastasis. Understanding the intricacies and patterns of the spread of cancer is therefore vital to improving cancer treatment standards.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins published a study in Nature Communications detailing their findings on cancer cell metastasis. Lead researcher Hasini Jayatilaka stated, “We found that it was not the overall size of a primary tumor that caused cancer cells to spread, but how tightly those cells are jammed together when they break away from the tumor. At a fundamental level, we found that cell density is very important in triggering metastasis.”
The researchers then constructed an experiment to help inhibit metastasis. In the study tumors were treated with two drugs - one approved for treating arthritis and the other being tested for breast cancer treatment. While this drug combination failed to stop the growth of the primary tumor it did significantly limit the spread of the cancer. Jayatilaka stated, “We discovered a new signaling pathway that, when blocked, could potentially curb cancer’s ability to metastasize.”
The Paul Law Firm advocates for victims of asbestos-related diseases. If you or a loved one is suffering from mesothelioma, call the Paul Law Firm. With over 2.5 billion dollars collected for victims of asbestos exposure, we have the knowledge and the experience to fight for you. We also understand that fighting doesn’t just happen in the courtroom. It also happens in a lab where we are fighting for a cure. Check out the Mesothelioma Research Foundation of America here.
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