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Boosting Cancer Immunity

A new protein has been discovered that exploits the innate ability of a person’s immune system to kill abnormal cells, offering new hope in the fight against cancer. Although little is known about the molecule or how it works, scientists are hopeful that it will lead to development of more effective treatments, not only for cancer but for viruses and chronic diseases as well.

The body’s immune system fights off cancer by producing T-cells, however, the cancer often grows faster than the number of T-cells needed to fight it, resulting in a poor prognosis. In addition, certain cancers actually suppress immune function, tipping the scales even further in the wrong direction.

The new discovery occurred while testing genetic mutations in mice, where it was noted that a specific mutation resulted in ten times the number of T-cells. That mutation was linked to a specific protein called lymphocyte expansion molecule (LEM), which also exists in humans. Subsequent experiments on human cells have shown that the protein promotes the growth of cytotoxic T-cells, allowing the body to produce enough to potentially overcome cancer.

The researchers are hoping to begin conducting trials of a new genetic therapy based on their work within three years.

For information: Philip Ashton-Rickardt, Imperial College London, Department of Medicine, Sir Alexander Fleming Building, South Kensington Campus, London SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom; phone: +44-20-7594-2762 or +44-20-7589-5111; email: p.ashton-rickardt@mperial.ac.uk; Web site: www.imperial.ac.uk

Daniel Burrus' Top Twenty Technology-Driven Trends