Study: Genetic Switch Reverses Breast Cancer in Laboratory Mice

U.S. and Canadian researchers have demonstrated for the first time that it is possible to reverse breast cancer in laboratory mice, and say new drugs using their genetic approach may "potentially eradicate breast cancer in humans."

A team from University of California at Davis and McGill University reported at the 24th Congress of the International Association for Breast Cancer Research that they have learned how to throw a genetic "switch" in mice, making genes active or inactive at will.

The researchers said that by removing a single gene known as beta-1 integrin -- a principal regulator of normal breast tissue growth and survival -- they prevented cancer-prone mice from developing breast tumors and halted further tumor growth in mice that already had breast cancer.

"It's enormously gratifying," said conference director Robert Cardiff, professor of pathology at UC Davis School of Medicine. "Our findings suggest paths forward that may help us alter the biological path of breast cancer and more successfully treat -- and even potentially prevent -- this cancer in humans."

"This study shows that it is absolutely essential to have the beta-1 integrin gene present in order for mammary gland tumors to develop." added William J. Muller, professor of biochemistry at McGill University. "We now have a good target for biological drug development, and the challenge is to develop an agent that can block its activity."

Other Sources: University of California at Davis, McGill University