Japan discovered the gene that accelerates cancer metastasis

Japanese scientists have recently discovered a gene that can accelerate the process of cancer metastasis on bone, from which scientists can find ways to prevent metastasis by inhibiting activity of this gene.

The Keio University team conducted experiments to monitor more than 50 genes related to bone diseases in cancer cells that cause breast cancer and prostate cancer.

The results showed that the gene called FRP is very active in cancer metastasis.

According to the team, the FRP gene prevents the activity of immune cells and lymphocytes - specialized cells of the immune system - making the metastasis process more rapid .

Later, the team tested an inhibitor of FRP gene activity and injected into experimental mice. After a while, the researchers found that almost no cancer has spread to the bones in these mice.

If the successful development of a drug that suppresses the action of the FRP gene, the cancer process can spread to bone, Chie Kudo, a member of the research group, said.

The team will continue to make efforts to soon produce this drug.