A fourth gene that causes cancerous cells to spread from the main tumor to other parts of the body has been found, University of Liverpool researchers say.
The gene, S100P, occurs naturally in 10 types of normal tissue. However, when found in a tumor, the gene causes the cancer to spread throughout the body, British researchers said.
S100P is the fourth member of the S100 family of protein genes identified by the Liverpool team. Earlier research identified the S100A4, osteopontin and AGR2 genes.
"The next major step is to develop drugs that will switch off the action of these genes," said researcher Philip Rudland. "If we can do this, we can stop the spread of the primary tumor and therefore improve the chances of survival for patients."
The study, supported by Britain's Cancer and Polio Research Fund, was reported in the journal Cancer Research.
© Copyright 2006 by United Press International
