Has long been known that the cells of plants and some animals can enter into a state similar to suspended animation. In this state, the cells cease to grow and divide. These cells differently respond to the influence of drugs. Therefore, it is logical to assume that the transfer of cancer cells into it and output from it can be very effective. And recently make it really successful.
A group of scientists from the University of Arizona and the University of Pittsburgh found a way to adjust the state of rest and activity through the expression of certain genes. As you know, chemotherapy is aimed primarily at the active cancer cells, while dormant it is not susceptible to drugs. This is one of the main reasons for the development of cancer recurrence. Staying dormant and invisible to the immune system, “sleeping” cells after chemotherapy can “Wake up” and resume the destructive process. During a series of experiments, scientists managed to awaken from slumber “sleeping” cells and make vulnerable to the effects of chemotherapy.
In addition, the researchers created a computer model to determine how changes in the expression of certain genes affect the state of the cells. The advantage of understanding the mechanism of switching cells will more accurately adjust the level of the rest of the cells, so the researchers were able to specifically target dormant cancer cells. Have to open and reverse side, not less pleasant. You can “turn off” cancer cells, preventing growth of the tumor.
Found a way to “lull” the cancer cells
Vladimir Kuznetsov