Scientists are nearing a significant breakthrough in cancer research by understanding how the immune system targets cells damaged by the disease. A recent study has revealed that natural killer cells, a crucial component of the immune system responsible for combating disease and infections, naturally identify and attack a specific protein that plays a key role in cancer progression.
This protein, known as XPO1, has been identified as a potential target for activating more natural killer cells to combat cancer. Researchers believe that by manipulating XPO1, they could enhance the body’s ability to fight cancer more effectively.
The study, led by scientists at the University of Southampton in collaboration with international experts, suggests that this discovery could pave the way for new, less invasive cancer treatments. Their findings were published in the journal Science Advances.
Professor Salim Khakoo, a Hepatology expert from Southampton and the study’s lead author, explained that it was previously thought that natural killer cells attacked cancer cells randomly. However, the study showed that the XPO1 protein, which is essential for normal cellular functions, becomes overactive in many cancers, enabling malignant cells to proliferate unchecked. The Southampton team discovered that a peptide derived from the XPO1 protein attracts natural killer cells, thereby triggering an immune response against cancerous cells.
Professor Khakoo noted, “Cancer patients with both active natural killer cells and high levels of XPO1 had significantly better survival rates. This finding applies to various cancers, including those with high mortality rates, such as liver cancer, which typically has an average survival rate of only 18 months.”
In addition to liver cancer, this approach could potentially be used to treat other forms of cancer, such as head and neck cancers, endometrial, bladder, or breast cancer.
While previous research has linked natural killer cells to cancer protection, this is the first study to demonstrate a viable method for activating these cells to specifically target the XPO1 protein and combat the disease.
Professor Ralf Schittenhelm, a co-author from Monash University in Australia, stated that this discovery has the potential to revolutionize immunotherapy. “We hope it could lead to personalized cancer treatments, particularly in cases where conventional therapies have failed. The possibility of developing targeted therapies that harness the body’s immune system is incredibly promising.”
As reported by news-medical.net, the Southampton team is now focused on developing the world’s first vaccine that utilizes natural killer cells to fight cancer.