There might be a strategy to hinder the progression of endometrial cancer using targeted therapy that quiets the ERBB2 gene.
Recent findings from the University of Missouri School of Medicine suggest that targeted cancer cell therapy could help slow the progression of endometrial cancer.
This year, an estimated 65,000 women will be diagnosed with endometrial cancer, making it the most prevalent cancer affecting female reproductive organs. Mutations in the PTEN protein, which usually helps regulate cell growth and division, are linked to a higher likelihood of developing several types of cancer. These mutations enable cells to grow uncontrollably.
A research team, including lab manager Krystina Dunston along with Tae Hoon Kim and Jae-Wook Jeong, conducted studies using mouse models that carried a PTEN mutation. Their research revealed that by specifically targeting and silencing the ERBB2 gene, they could significantly enhance the likelihood of inhibiting tumor growth. ERBB2 plays a role among many genes that control cell growth.
Dunston stated, “Although ERBB2 and PTEN operate within different signaling pathways, we suspect they are interconnected in the context of endometrial cancer. Understanding how targeting ERBB2 influences tumor growth in cases with PTEN mutations is crucial.”
Signaling pathways serve to amplify messages received by cells, prompting them to respond. This process continues as each cell response can trigger further signals.
By managing the growth of endometrial cancer, a broader range of treatment options can be maintained. Currently, a hysterectomy is the common approach, while more advanced stages may necessitate aggressive treatments such as radiation or chemotherapy.
Dunston highlighted, “All these treatments can impact fertility, making it essential to explore alternative ways to treat and prevent this disease.”
Krystina Dunston is a laboratory manager at the NextGen Precision Health Center, working with Tae Hoon Kim and Jae-Wook Jeong. Kim serves as an assistant professor in obstetrics, gynecology, and women’s health and obtained his PhD from Chung-An University. Jeong is the Dr. R. Philip and Diane Acuff Endowed Professor in the same field and earned his PhD from Korea University.
