Many of us wonder whether a cure for cancer exists. The good news is researchers have made an amazing discovery that may hold the key to conquering cancer. Recently, Cambridge University scientists, led by Professor Shankar Balasubramanian, proved that the four-stranded ‘quadruple helix’ DNA exists in humans and forms in parts of our DNA. What does this mean?
Well, scientists think it’s possible to stop runaway cell growth at the root of cancer by targeting quadruple helix DNA (also known as G-quadruplexes) with synthetic molecules that trap and hold these DNA structures. In essence, we may be able to stop cells from dividing, such as in the case of cancer cells.
Does a Cure for Cancer Exist?
Scientists have already known they can create this quadruple helix DNA in test tubes; however, this recent study proves that this DNA structure actually exists in humans. Using these unusual DNA structures has the potential to beat cancer using personalized treatments, by targeting them on tumor cells. Tumors grow when genes called oncogenes have mutated causing an increase in DNA replication. This mutation causes cells to increase rapidly, creating tumor growth. Using the quadruple helix DNA with synthetic modification may help in stopping the rapid mutated growth of cells.
How Quadruple Helix DNA Can Work as a Cure
Researchers and scientists just recently discovered that when they used synthetic molecules to trap the quadruplex helix DNA structure it interfered with cell division. This fact suggests that the quadruplex structures are involved in cell replication and the uncontrolled replication we see in cancers.
It appears that in the not too distant future, the more we discover about the quadruple helix DNA, and how it works concerning cell growth, we may be able to modify the DNA structure synthetically, and have more control over rapid cell growth.
More research is required and planned for the immediate future. Nonetheless, there’s hope on the horizon of answering the question of whether a cure for cancer exists.
Enjoy this article? Receive e-mail alerts when new articles are available. Just click on the "Subscribe" button above.
Be sure to follow George Zapo on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and LinkedIn.
Comments