Some tumours could ‘recruit’ nerves to help them grow
Researchers have discovered that triple-negative breast cancer cells can recruit immune cells to encourage nerve growth into tumors. This process, facilitated by the protein BDNF, appears to help the cancer survive and progress.
Why it matters
Understanding this mechanism could lead to new therapeutic targets for treating aggressive forms of breast cancer.
New research suggests some triple-negative breast tumours may recruit immune cells that encourage nerves to grow into the cancer, potentially helping it survive and progress. (Envato Elements pic)
PETALING JAYA: Cancer is often described as uncontrolled cell growth - but a tumour is far from an isolated mass. It exists within a busy neighbourhood of blood vessels, immune cells, connective tissue and, increasingly, nerves.
Now, US researchers have uncovered a striking way in which one aggressive form of breast cancer may exploit that environment to its advantage.
A recent study published in the journal Cell Death & Differentiation found that triple-negative breast cancer can recruit macrophages - immune cells normally involved in fighting infection and repairing damaged tissue - and use them to encourage nerves to grow into the tumour.
The process involves a protein called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which normally supports the growth and survival of nerve cells.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in