Breast cancer spread gene believed to have been identified by scientists
SCIENTISTS believe they have found the gene which drives breast cancer to spread to other parts of the body.
Scientists believe they have found the gene that drives breast cancer to spread
Researchers in America now hope that by “editing” the gene they can stop the cancer in its tracks.
Every year nearly 55,000 people are diagnosed with breast cancer in the UK
They say the discovery could improve survival rates through early detection and better treatment.
Little is known of the cause of “metastasis” – the spread of the disease – on a molecular level. Every year nearly 55,000 people are diagnosed with breast cancer in the UK.
Researchers in America now hope that by “editing” the gene they can stop the cancer in its tracks
When it is diagnosed in its early stages, nearly all patients who are treated successfully are still alive five years after treatment.
But once it has spread, only one in five survive more than five years.
Metastatic breast cancer is ultimately what kills patients
In a new study published in the journal Nature Communications, doctor Qihong Huang explained: “Metastatic breast cancer is ultimately what kills patients.
“While early detection is critical, it does not help patients whose disease has spread, and so we wanted to determine what was causing this to happen.”
He said one of the most exciting things about the gene – known as “Gabra3” – is that drugs targeting it are already available for treating diseases such as insomnia.
Little is known of the cause of “metastasis”
Time lapse video of woman who had chemotherapy growing hair back
Dr Emma Smith, from Cancer Research UK, said: “Nearly all cancer deaths are caused by the disease spreading, so it’s urgent we find ways to stop it.”