It has long been known that the cells of plants and some animals can enter a state similar to suspended animation. In this state, cells stop growing and dividing. These cells respond differently to drugs. Therefore, it is logical to assume that the transfer of cancer cells into and out of this state can be extremely effective. And recently it really succeeded.
A team of scientists from the University of Arizona and the University of Pittsburgh have found a way to regulate rest and activity through the expression of certain genes. As you know, chemotherapy is primarily aimed at active cancer cells, while the dormant is not susceptible to drugs. This is one of the main reasons for the development of cancer recurrence. Remaining dormant and invisible to the immune system, "dormant" cells after the end of chemotherapy can "wake up" and resume the destructive process. In a series of experiments, scientists managed to awaken from sleep "dormant" cells and make them vulnerable to the effects of chemotherapy.
In addition, the researchers created a computer model to determine how changing the expression of certain genes affects the state of cells. The advantage of understanding the cell switching mechanism would allow for more precise regulation of the level of cell dormancy so that researchers can specifically target inactive cancer cells. The opening also has a downside, no less pleasant. Cancer cells can be turned off by preventing tumor growth.
Vladimir Kuznetsov
