Researchers discovered that after switching off a key growth signal, some cancer cells temporarily stop dividing. These cells enter a state called senescence, in which they do not divide further but remain active. During this phase, they change shape and adapt their metabolism to survive, despite the lack of the original growth signal.
However, this process can cause cancer cells to develop new ways over time to start growing again after all. In animal models, the scientists saw that tumours reappeared after initial shrinkage, despite continuous blocking of the oncogene, the gene that causes the tumour to grow. These recurring tumours are often more aggressive and no longer respond to the same treatment.
The study also shows that senescence causes changes to occur in the genetic material of cancer cells. This genetic instability creates new opportunities for growth. In addition, the tissue surrounding the tumour changes, making it harder for the immune system to act and easier for the tumour to grow. This also appears to be relevant to human cancers, such as melanoma, where similar effects have been found.
These findings underscore the importance of combating senescent cells, which can lead to cancer recurrence, alongside suppressing tumour growth. This insight contributes to the development of better treatments that promise long-lasting efficacy.
For anyone interested in healthy ageing, this shows how complex the fight against diseases such as cancer remains and how important continuous innovation in medicine is.
Source: Anna Barkovskaya
