New clue to cancer metastasis found
Article Abstract:
Why some tumor cells metastasize (spread) to regions of the body distant from the primary site of the tumor is a question of great concern to researchers, since most cancer patients ultimately die of metastasis. An important clue to this mystery was provided by investigators Patricia Steeg and Lance Liotta, who identified a gene that is apparently able to suppress cancer cells' ability to metastasize. Further research into the nature of this metastasis suppressor gene revealed that it controls significant aspects of the cell's response to external stimuli such as hormones and growth factors; thus the enzyme for which the gene codes may be a determinant of cell growth and ultimately metastasis. The gene is the first one discovered that affects metastasis via a regulatory pathway within the cell. Its identification opens up the possibility of developing therapeutic approaches that enhance its activity. A brief history of the identification of NM23, as the gene is called, is provided. While Steeg and her coworkers studied NM23, research on a fruitfly gene responsible for developmental abnormalities, called awd (abnormal wing disks), was also ongoing. Computerized comparison of the sequences of NM23 and awd led to the discovery that they were 78 percent identical. Studies of the slime mold, an organism that exists as independent cells when food is plentiful, but as a cell aggregate when food is scarce, led to the discovery of a gene important in cell aggregation. That gene was found to code for a nucleoside diphosphate (NDP) kinase, an enzyme with a structure similar to that coded for by NM23. Thus, several lines of investigation converged around that gene. That the product of NM23 is an NDP kinase has not yet been determined, but evidence is accumulating to suggest that this is indeed the case. Several laboratories are hard at work to learn more about NM23, a potentially important controller of metastasis. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Science
Subject: Science and technology
ISSN: 0036-8075
Year: 1990
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New clue to prostate cancer spread: discovery of gene that appears to suppress prostate cancer metastasis may aid both the understanding and the treatment of this dangerous cancer
Article Abstract:
A research team led by John Isaacs and Carl Barrett has identified a gene that restricts the ability of prostate cancer to metastasize in animals. The finding may lead to new genetic therapies for prostate cancer, but most immediately it can be used to identify men who need aggressive treatment.
Publication Name: Science
Subject: Science and technology
ISSN: 0036-8075
Year: 1995
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Cellular changes on the route to metastasis
Article Abstract:
Researchers are attempting to identify biological changes that cause breast cancer growth and metastasis. Two changes in the patterns of protein expression of breast cancer cells have been discovered.
Publication Name: Science
Subject: Science and technology
ISSN: 0036-8075
Year: 1993
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