Molecule behind breast cancer's spread identified

Washington, December 9 (ANI): Scientists at the Burnham Institute for Medical Research in America have found that a biologically active molecule called a chemokine promotes the spread of tumours, particularly in breast cancer.

Dr. Gregory Roth, who led the research team, believes that medications that block the chemokine may offer potential cancer therapies.

The researchers, however, concede that existing small molecules that bind to chemokines only bind weakly, and thus are not good candidates for use in medicines.

The team are presently trying to custom-design molecules that bind tightly to the chemokine, hoping that it would block its activity and stop the spread of tumours. (ANI)