LOC23:16
20:16 GMT
LONDON, April 29 (KUNA) -- A British scientific research study paper said
on Sunday that scientists discovered a gene that slowed the spread of
pancreatic cancer tumors, a step that will enable targeted treatment to the
deadly disease.
David Tuveson, the Professor in charge of the study at Cambridge Cancer
Research Center said that the gene called (USP9X), is considered one of the
vital genes that fight this type of cancer, noting that if it was not awaken
soon it will not have any affect.
The existence of the gene, which is found in all of our cells but goes
missing in some tumors, was known before but not its role as a cancer
suppressor, said Tuveson.
The study also noted that there is 15 percent chance of success to change
genes functionality during treatment.
The discovery means that "we can wake up the gene by using drugs" known as
epigenetic modulators," Tuveson added.
"Our observation allows us to potentially treat people that have lost this
gene in the pancreas tumours. It allows us to offer a therapy for the patients
that actually have the worst prognosis," the professor added.
The study took place and participated by an international team, the study
of pancreatic cancer in mice, the international research team found it also
played a role in humans.
The study noted that 8,000 people die of Pancreatic Cancer in Britain, full
recovery from the disease is still considered very low, when compared to other
cancer diseases. (end)
mrn.mb
KUNA 292316 Apr 12NNNN