How cells respond differently to a cancer-causing gene

edited by Gaby Clark , reviewed by Andrew Zinin

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Add as preferred source UHRF1 overexpression rapidly induces a DDR and SASP. Credit: EMBO Reports (2026). DOI: 10.1038/s44319-026-00941-y Researchers at NYU Abu Dhabi have discovered that a single cancer-causing gene can trigger different responses in cells, with some helping to prevent tumors while others may contribute to their development.

The study, published in EMBO Reports , found that the gene can trigger several forms of cellular senescence, a natural defense in which damaged cells stop dividing to help prevent cancer—a tumor-suppressive function inherent to all cells.