Recently, scientists from Lund University (Sweden) discovered a new mechanism in cancer cells. It turned out that the SLAMF6 protein helps cells evade attacks from the immune system in acute myeloid leukemia.
Acute myeloid leukemia is an aggressive form of blood cancer where malignant cells spread rapidly in the bone marrow. Existing treatment methods, such as chemotherapy and stem cell transplants, often prove to be insufficiently effective.
During the study, scientists analyzed proteins on the surface of cancer stem cells that interact with their environment. They discovered the SLAMF6 protein, which is present only on the membranes of malignant cells.
The research showed that the SLAMF6 protein helps cancer cells evade T-cells, which typically destroy tumors. By blocking this protein, immune cells can effectively break down the tumor again.
Preparation for clinical trials
At the moment, the team of scientists is working on improving the antibody that blocks the SLAMF6 protein and is preparing for clinical trials. This discovery could be crucial in developing new effective treatment methods for blood cancer that does not respond to existing therapies.
'It was almost like a reboot of the immune system and stripping cancer cells of their ability to hide,' explained one of the authors of the study, Carl Sanden.
In addition to this research, other scientists have found that physical activity can slow down the growth of cancer cells. During exercise, muscles release compounds that suppress the growth of cancer cells.
Scientists from Lund University have discovered that the SLAMF6 protein helps cancer cells evade attacks from the immune system in acute myeloid leukemia. They are already working on improving the antibody that blocks this protein and preparing for clinical trials. This research may assist in developing new treatment methods for cancer patients.