Scientists at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL) Reveal and Exploit Vulnerabilities in Cancer Cells, Paving the Way for New Treatments
Scientists at the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL) have made a groundbreaking discovery, revealing and exploiting the vulnerabilities of cancer cells, which could lead to the development of new treatments. In a recent study published in the journal Nature Communications, the laboratory's scientists identified a protein that determines whether pancreatic cancer cells retain their traditional appearance or begin to adopt characteristics similar to those of skin cells. In another study, published in the journal Cell Reports, the research team mapped the crystal structure of a group of essential proteins involved in small cell lung cancer, known for its rapid spread. According to Science Daily, these two discoveries enable doctors to better understand how tumors reprogram themselves, on the one hand, and contribute to the development of highly specialized treatments targeting these types of cancer, on the other hand. Dr. Vakoc describes this breakthrough as a turning point in the treatment of certain cancers. In collaboration with Limor Joshua-Tor, director of research at CSHL, the researchers made a discovery that could lead to a gene therapy capable of stopping cancer growth. The scientists hope that this treatment will be similar to hormonal therapies currently used for breast and prostate cancers, which were once difficult to control. However, this requires further research and studies. The researchers are currently testing medications and treatments that target cancer cells without harming other cells in the body on laboratory mice. In trials conducted on mice with pancreatic and lung cancer, the scientists found no signs of toxicity or damage to vital organs. Commenting on these promising results, Dr. Vakoc concludes: "We are raising the standards of precision when it comes to new cancer targets and treatments."
