Researchers have discovered a new way that RAS mutant proteins can promote some of the deadliest cancers.
A paper published by the National Cancer Institute shows that the discovery was made by researchers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) with their collaborators.
They found that RAS genes, which are commonly mutated in cancer, may drive tumor growth beyond what scientists thought previously.
How it works
The scientists found that mutant RAS can initiate the movement of specific proteins in the nucleus leading to uncontrolled tumor growth.
These mutant proteins, the researchers found, are key drivers of some of the deadliest cancers, including nearly all pancreatic cancers, half of colorectal cancers, and one-third of lung cancers.
Study author and deputy director of NIH’s National Cancer Institute (NCI).
Douglas Lowy, M.D. said:
“This is the first study to show that mutated RAS genes can promote cancer in an entirely new way. The finding of the additional role for RAS proteins has exciting implications for improving treatment.”
Up until now, mutated RAS proteins were only known for signaling at the cell surface. This study however reveals that they can activate specific proteins at the cell surface and keep sending signals that encourage cell growth, thus promoting the development and growth of tumors.
With this new discovery, the researchers believe, will contribute significantly to treatment of RAS-fueled cancers as it can form the basis for developing new cancer treatments that take mutant RAS proteins into account.
Progress in cancer research
much progress has been made in cancer research lately, and this new discovery is evidence.
In an earlier groundbreaking study, scientists have discovered the secrets that lead to the spread of metastatic cancers in the body.
With proper implementation of these findings, there may be hope that cancers of all kinds can be curbed in the near future.
