Khaberni - In a notable scientific advancement, researchers have identified a protein that plays a dual role in the growth of skin cancer and the immune system’s resistance to it, which could potentially change the course of treatment in the future.
According to a report published by "ScienceDaily", this protein, known as "HOXD13", acts as a primary driver for tumor development.
Data suggest that this protein belongs to a class that controls gene activity, contributing to the increase in blood supply to the tumor by stimulating blood vessel formation, thus providing it with oxygen and nutrients necessary for growth.
Experiments showed that reducing the activity of this protein led to a significant reduction in tumor size, confirming its pivotal role in the disease’s progression.
Immune System Disruption
The impact of HOXD13 not only feeds the tumor but also extends to weakening the immune response, as it was found that patients with high levels of it have fewer killer T-cells, which are responsible for attacking cancer cells.
These cells also find it difficult to penetrate the tumor, allowing it to continue growing without effective resistance.
Analyses showed that this protein increases the production of "adenosine", which acts as a chemical barrier, slowing down the activity of immune cells and preventing them from reaching the tumor.
When this pathway is disabled, immune cells were able to infiltrate the tumor more extensively, enhancing the chances of combating it.
Reducing the Tumor's Blood Supply
Researchers point out that targeting this protein might have a dual effect, by reducing the blood supply to the tumor and enhancing the immune response at the same time.
Currently, drugs targeting pathways associated with it, such as VEGF and adenosine receptors, are being tested in clinical trials on different types of cancer.
The study was based on the analysis of samples from more than 200 patients, along with experiments on cellular and animal models, which strengthens the power of the results.
Despite the significance of the discovery, these results are still within the scope of scientific research and have not yet been converted into an approved treatment, requiring further clinical studies, but this discovery may reveal a new "weak point" in skin cancer, potentially paving the way for the development of more accurate and effective treatments, targeting both the tumor and its immunity simultaneously.
