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US Scientists Successfully 'Switch Off' Cancer Cells

iONiUM sends news that Mayo Clinic cancer researchers have developed a technique to reprogram cancer cells in a lab, essentially "turning off" their excessive cell growth. That code was unraveled by the discovery that adhesion proteins — the glue that keeps cells together — interact with the microprocessor, a key player in the production of molecules called microRNAs (miRNAs). The miRNAs orchestrate whole cellular programs by simultaneously regulating expression of a group of genes (abstract). The investigators found that when normal cells come in contact with each other, a specific subset of miRNAs suppresses genes that promote cell growth. However, when adhesion is disrupted in cancer cells, these miRNAs are misregulated and cells grow out of control. The investigators showed, in laboratory experiments, that restoring the normal miRNA levels in cancer cells can reverse that aberrant cell growth.

2 of 52 comments (clear)

  1. I'll believe it when I see it.... by MagickalMyst · · Score: 4, Insightful

    When I see it in practice with proven real world results.

    Too often these promising studies generate all kinds of hype and then disappear shortly thereafter.

    --
    Political correctness is really just herd psychology pushed by insecure people who desperately seek social conformity.
    1. Re:I'll believe it when I see it.... by allcoolnameswheretak · · Score: 3, Insightful

      Yeah, if you're a regular on Slashdot, it seems like we've been finding a cure for cancer and HIV for the last 20 years or so. Also, we will have a space elavator, fusion energy, flying cars and Linux on the desktop in just 5 more years!.

      I realize this is amazingly complex stuff and that research takes time... but I really do hope that scientists are not just fishing for a Nobel price, and performing endless theoretical research without ever thinking about practical applications.