Gene May Play a Role in Prostate Cancer Aggression
By Donna Parker • Feb 2nd, 2010 • Category: Health News, Prostate health
Several physicians have touted the importance of older men getting their PSA levels checked to ensure their not at risk for prostate cancer. Now, a new study is suggesting there may be a gene function that could leave patients more at risk.
According to researchers from the University of Texas (UT) Southwestern Medical Center, prostate cancer cells can be held in check by a DAB2IP gene, which can ensure that the disease stays in control. However, if the gene loses its function, these cancer cells are released into the body, which could lead to a more aggressive and potentially life-threatening cancer.
The scientists studied mice, shutting off the gene at first, and then restoring the function, noting the progression of the cancer and how the restoration helped protect the body from the cancer spreading.
"Cells undergoing an epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) experience biological changes that enable them to move freely and spontaneously throughout the body," said senior author Dr. Jer-Tsong Hsieh. "By restoring DAB2IP function in cancer cells in mice, we reversed their ability to change and metastasize."
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