Abortion drug a possible cure for breast cancer: research

Published On 2016-03-01 04:12 GMT   |   Update On 2016-03-01 04:12 GMT
Advertisement
Beijing, Mar 1: Chinese scientist have found that a common abortion drug can have an anti-tumour effect in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), the most malignant subtype of breast cancer.

Liu Rong of the Kunming Institute of Zoology under the Chinese Academy of Sciences said Mifepristone (MIF) suppresses tumour growth of TNBC cells in mice and reduces the number of TNBC cancer stem cells by reducing KLF5, a protein that promotes proliferation and survival of cancer cells.
Advertisement

MIF suppresses cancer stem cells by causing a micro RNA molecule to suppress KLF5, Liu said.

"Our findings may provide new therapeutic strategies for the treatment of TNBC," Liu said, state-run Xinhua news agency reported today.

TNBC refers to any breast cancer that does not express the genes for estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor or Her2/neu. This makes it more difficult to treat since most chemotherapies target one of the three receptors, so triple-negative cancers often require combination therapies.
Tags:    

Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.

NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.

Our comments section is governed by our Comments Policy . By posting comments at Medical Dialogues you automatically agree with our Comments Policy , Terms And Conditions and Privacy Policy .

Similar News