Researchers from the University of Southern Denmark have identified a universal genetic “signature” consisting of 177 genes, the presence of which is characteristic of various metastatic (spreading to other organs) cancers. Research results It was published In the journal Molecular Cancer.
Laboratory analysis of more than 200 tumor tissue samples from six cancer types using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) technology examined the behavior of individual cells in metastatic and non-metastatic tumors. The study identified key genes and drugs that affect the metastasis process.
In total, the genetic “signature” that allowed predicting the likelihood of cancer metastasis included 177 genes. Two genes turned out to be particularly important. The first, SP1, promotes metastasis by increasing the motility and “aggressiveness” of cancer cells, while the second, KLF5, helps the body fight the disease by suppressing this process.
According to study co-author Professor Vijay Tiwari, the discovery of these genes could play an important role in the development of treatments to stop metastasis before it becomes life-threatening.
The obtained results create new opportunities for early diagnosis and the development of universal treatment methods that take into account common genetic factors. According to scientists, understanding key genetic triggers offers hope for reducing the disease’s mortality rate and easing the disease’s burden on patients and their families.
Previously scientists created substances with anticancer properties.
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Source: Gazeta
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