Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), a particularly aggressive type of pancreatic cancer, may soon see new treatment avenues thanks to a study from the Francis Crick Institute.
Despite the grim survival rates, with only 8% of patients living beyond five years after diagnosis, this new research offers a glimmer of hope.
Unraveling the Role of Cancer Stem Cells
The study, led by Axel Behrens and published in Nature Cell Biology, delved into the world of cancer stem cells.
These cells are notorious for their role in initiating and sustaining tumor growth, much like healthy stem cells repair tissues and organs. Identifying these cells is crucial for developing effective cancer therapies.
The researchers discovered that a protein called CD9, present on the surface of these cells, is not just a marker but also an active player in the cancer’s progression.
CD9: A Key Player in Tumor Aggressiveness
The presence of CD9 on cancer stem cells makes it a valuable target for potential treatments. The research team manipulated CD9 levels in tumor cells in mice and observed significant changes in tumor growth.
Lowering CD9 levels resulted in smaller tumors, while increased CD9 made the cancer cells more aggressive, forming larger tumors rapidly.
This correlation between CD9 levels and cancer severity was also reflected in clinical data, with about 10% of pancreatic cancer patients exhibiting amplified levels of CD9.
Cutting Off Cancer’s Fuel
The team’s investigation into how CD9 promotes cancer revealed its role in boosting the uptake of glutamine, an amino acid vital for the cancer’s energy supply.
This understanding paves the way for new therapies aimed at targeting CD9. By inhibiting this protein, the treatment could potentially starve the cancer stem cells by restricting their glutamine supply.
Future Prospects and Lifesaving Potential
The findings of this study could significantly impact the future treatment of pancreatic cancer. By targeting CD9, new therapies might effectively starve cancer stem cells, curbing the growth of this aggressive cancer.
This research marks a significant step in the ongoing battle against pancreatic cancer, offering hope for improved treatment options and potentially saving many lives.
If you care about cancer, please read studies about a new method to treat cancer effectively, and this low-dose, four-drug combo may block cancer spread.
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