Two Genes Responsible for Treatment Rejection in Bowel Cancer Patients

Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States for men and women. In the United Kingdom, it is the fourth leading cause. Unfortunately, many early symptoms of the problem can go undetected until the cancer has metastasized.

Researchers at Queen's University in Belfast discovered two genes that cause bowel cancer cells to resist treatments used against the disease. Their findings, published in the journal Cell Reports, give a glimpse of how blocking these genes can prolong the survival of these patients.

"We have discovered how two key genes contribute to aggressive bowel cancer," said lead study author Dr. Sandra van Schaeybroek of the university, in a news release. "Understanding how they are involved in development of the disease has also primed the development of a potential new treatment approach for this disease."

The two genes, called MEK and MET, were uncovered when researchers examined all the different pathways and interactions taking place in bowel cancer cells. According to Dr. van Schaeybroek of the university, researchers found that these bowel cancers carry the potential to switch on a survival mechanism when they are treated with drugs that target the MEK genes. On a similar note, drugs that block the MET gene can help kill the cancer cells.

By targeting these genes in the future, researchers said they hope to approach new types of treatments for some of the most aggressive forms of bowel cancer.

"Understanding the genes that cause bowel cancer is a key focus of our research," conlcuded Queen's University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Patrick Johnston. "Our discoveries in this deadly disease have identified a new route to clinical application for cancer patients."