Abu Dhabi:Researchers at NYU Abu Dhabi have discovered that a single cancer-causing gene can lead to varying responses in cells, with some aiding in tumor prevention and others potentially contributing to their development.
According to Emirates News Agency, the study, published in EMBO Reports, revealed that the gene can initiate several forms of cellular senescence. This natural defense mechanism causes damaged cells to cease dividing, acting as a tumor-suppressive function inherent to all cells.
Using a zebrafish model of liver cancer, the researchers examined the initial response to a cancer-causing gene. They found that while some precancerous cells become terminally senescent and cannot form tumors, others might regain the ability to divide and contribute to cancer.
The study highlights that chemotherapies often induce senescence in cancer cells without fully eliminating them. Therefore, targeting these therapy-induced senescent cells with drugs called senolytics, which eliminate them, is considered beneficial.
In their research, the team tested a common senolytic, discovering its effectiveness against only some precancerous cells, indicating variability in response among senescent cells.
These findings suggest that treatments targeting senescent cells must consider the diverse behavior of these cells. Professor Kirsten Sadler Edepli of NYU Abu Dhabi, senior author of the study, emphasized the complexity of cancer development and the importance of understanding different types of cellular senescence in influencing treatment outcomes.
The study also involved undergraduate capstone researchers, showcasing the significant contributions students can make in high-impact research when guided by dedicated mentors. Led by Research Scientist Elena Magnani, the research was conducted in collaboration with the University's Center for Genomics and Systems Biology.
This research provides new insights into cellular responses to cancer-causing genes and could inform more effective strategies for targeting senescent cells in cancer treatment.