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Even after successful treatment and remission, there is a type of cancer that can remain hidden in the body for years before showing up. Sounds scary? Well, according to a recent study led by Dr. Gary Luker of the University of Michigan, that’s a reality for breast cancer patients receiving estrogen. Read this also Why does breast cancer recur after treatment: reasons and tips to be careful
According to studies, these sleeper cancer cells lie dormant in the body for years before appearing and causing breast cancer recurrence. This study may help pave the way for better cancer treatments that can prevent the return of these cancer cells.
Study findings:
The study notes that while most people believe that successful cancer treatment indicates that the disease is eliminated from the body, in estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer, it is not as simple as it seems. These cancer cells can remain hidden inside the bone marrow for years and even decades before developing again.
“Cancer cells physically borrow molecules—proteins, messenger RNA—directly from mesenchymal stem cells,” Dr. Gary Luker, senior author of the study, said in a media release. Essentially mesenchymal stem cells act as very generous neighbors donating things that make cancer cells more aggressive and drug resistant. Read this also Doctors warn that breast cancer is on the rise in young women despite medical advances, greater awareness
What helps these cancer cells survive?
Through laboratory experiments, researchers have discovered the existence of a key protein called GIV or Girdin, which plays an essential role in helping these cancer cells survive. GIV makes these cancer cells resistant to estrogen-targeted therapies like tamoxifen, which helps them survive in the body for years to come. These cancer cells borrow essential proteins from the stem cells in the bone marrow through cellular tunnels.
The study has a warning:
The study is not just academic, and more investigation could help revolutionize cancer treatments that can target these cunning cancer cells that hide in the body for years and then relapse. This can further neutralize the disease, and prevent breast cancer from recurring after initial treatment. Read this also Breast Cancer: 4 early symptoms that women in their 20s, 30s and 40s should not forget
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.
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