A trigger against cancer identified
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Researchers in Boston may have found the proteins that trigger anti-tumor immunity. These same proteins are especially important to preventing tumor formations in many cancers.
Cyclin-dependent kinases 4 and 6 are proteins that were first discovered by scientists to be involved in the cell cycle. CDK4 and CDK6 genes can be spliced an inserted into various organisms, without any ill effect.
Cyclin-dependent kinase 4 and Cyclin-dependent kinase 6 (CDK4 and CDK6) are proteins used by all eukaryotic organisms, including humans and yeast. These proteins have been shown to be critical in many cell functions, especially the cell cycle. A recent study now indicates that not only are these proteins crucial for cell function, but it may trigger anti-tumor immunity in your body.
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The cells that regulate your immune response– called T cells– used receptors to detect whether a cell is foreign or part of the body. The mechanism as to how it identifies tumor cells is less understood; after all, tumor cells are technically part of the self. Researcher have found, however, that certain kinds of tumors do suppress CDK4 and CDK6. This leads to two results: production of virus-like genetic material and the suppressed production of regulatory T cells. The immune system reacts via chemicals release by the T cells, from both effects.
Researchers are hoping to further target both proteins for future treatments.
Photo Credit: Drew March
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