In cancer, molecular signals that recruit blood vessels also trigger metastasis
Monday, December 19, 2011 - 08:20
in Health & Medicine
(Medical Xpress) -- Cancer cells are most deadly when theyre on the move able not only to destroy whatever organ they are first formed in, but also to create colonies elsewhere in the body. New research has now shown how a small RNA prevents the recruitment and formation of blood vessels near cancer cell destined to become metastases, a process that must occur in order for them to grow. The scientists say that if drugs could be developed that act on the pathways regulated by this microRNA, they might be able to block the metastatic process and prevent some breast cancers from becoming deadly.