The Rapid Cell Division In Cancer Can Be Controlled

Disorders Cure

oi-Staff

By Staff

Tuesday, August 25, 2009, 14:21

Scientists from Michigan State University have identified a new mechanism that will help them move closer to finding an 'off switch' for cancer.

It's a known fact that cancer cells divide uncontrollably, finally leading the organ to be completely destroyed, and can move from one part of the body to another. They undergo dramatic shifts in shape when they do so.

And now, some subject experts are trying to figure out how certain proteins trigger cell movement and division and how cancer hijacks the system to create genomic instability.

For this, the researchers studied proteins called formins that help determine the shape of a cell during division and movement. They identified a new mechanism for regulation of formins during cell division. "One of the cool things about these proteins," says DeWard "Is that they're tightly regulated." He adds, "They will only do their jobs when they're told to do so."

On this the researchers corroborates: "We identified the way in which these proteins get flagged for destruction. This mechanism is pretty common for a lot of proteins, but had never been shown for this family of proteins before, and no one really knew how to shut them off completely." "Our goal now is to exploit this information in the development of strategies to specifically stop the process of uncontrolled cell division that characterizes cancer," he added.

"Aaron's observation gives us a handle on the molecular machinery controlling cell division," said VARI senior scientific investigator Art Alberts.

AGENCIES

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.