Cancer
Gene that may check cancer spread found
By IANS
Apr 1, 2006, 14:21

Scientists have discovered a gene that holds the promise of halting the spread of cancer cells.

Researchers at Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI) discovered that the gene labelled SSeCKS/Gravin/AKAP12 suppressed the formation of structures called "podosomes", which malignant cancer cells use to spread into nearby organs, reported Newswise wire.

Identification of the gene is significant because most cancer deaths are caused by cancer that has spread, or metastasized. Research can now focus on developing treatments to boost the gene's effectiveness in halting the spread of disease, they say.

Cancer is the general name for over 100 medical conditions involving uncontrolled and dangerous cell growth. Scientists suggest that some cancers are caused by genetic factors while others are caused by environmental conditions.

Since 2005, cancer has become the leading cause of death for people under the age of 85, although the total number of deaths from cardiovascular disease for all ages is still slightly greater than that for cancer.

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