Newly discovered weakness in cancer cells make them more susceptible to chemotherapy
Thursday, August 29, 2013 - 11:00
in Health & Medicine
A new weakness discovered in cancer cells may cause increased susceptibility to chemotherapy and other treatments. Researchers have identified the HDAC5 protein as essential for maintenance of telomeres within cancer cells that promote their longevity. Cells with longer telomeres are more resistant to therapies, while cells with shorter telomeres are more susceptible. By targeting this mechanism used to maintain telomeres, existing therapies could become more effective at eradicating cancer.