Revolutionary Compound Forces Breast Cancer Cells To Self-Destruct

OSU researchers found compounds that turn the Bcl-2 protein into a tumor killer, offering new breast cancer therapies. Studies showed these compounds effectively kill cancer cells by changing Bcl-2’s shape. Future steps involve advancing to human trials and veterinary uses.

Researchers at Oregon State University have identified compounds that transform a protein known for protecting cancer cells into a tumor killer.

Researchers report that their multi-year study paves the way for potential treatments for breast cancer and other cancers that depend on the Bcl-2 protein to resist therapy and develop drug resistance.

“The holy grail in cancer research is finding a molecular target that plays a major, essential role in cancer cell growth that you can go after without causing side effects – that is, without affecting regular cells,” said Siva Kolluri, professor of environmental and molecular toxicology in the College of Agricultural Sciences. “Multiple pathways control a normal cell to be normal, and cancer cells hijack one of those pathways that control the rate of proliferation and/or death.”