Researchers have demonstrated the protein’s role in the rapid development of metastases in aggressive breast cancer. The discovery may make it possible to develop therapies capable of preventing the appearance of these new tumors.
“Aggressive” breast cancer means that it spreads quickly. This type of cancer, such as metastasis.
A team of Franco-American researchers led by a biologist from the National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS) looked at this issue: metastasis, tumors formed by the propagation of the initial tumor in other organs of the patient. Why does this breast cancer show such an evolution? What are the mechanisms at work?
Proteins under the influence of other proteins
According to study results published this Wednesday, January 31 in the journal cell discovery, Scientists have demonstrated the key role of a protein, the SMDY2 protein, in the appearance of metastases. In aggressive breast cancer, this protein hijacks the role of another protein, BCAR3
. This is responsible for the migration ability of cells. But it is also under the influence of SMDY2, which is abundantly present in aggressive breast cancers. “Experience in vitro demonstrated that the presence, or at least stimulation, of SMYD2 is required for the growth of metastatic cancer cells and their ability to migrate and invade their environment. Refers to the CNRS press release.
Time to win
The scientists then inhibited the protein in question in mice suffering from early-stage breast cancer without metastases. “A comparative analysis of the evolution of cancer growth stages between treated and untreated mice finally highlighted the relationship between the inhibition of SMYD2, blocking its action on BCAR3, and the complete absence of metastasis”.
This discovery may allow the development of treatments that will prevent the rapid occurrence of metastasis. Objective: To save time and identify appropriate treatment for this aggressive cancer.
