breast cancer It remains one of the most challenging health conditions to combat, and a recent study led by Dr. Gary Luker of the University of Michigan sheds light on a concerning phenomenon. According to research, some breasts cancer The cells may remain dormant in the body for years or decades after treatment, only to later surface again, causing recurrence. These findings are particularly relevant to patients with estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer, as these “sleeper cells” have unique mechanisms that enable them to evade detection and treatment.

Dr. Luker’s study shows that successful cancer treatments often give patients hope that the disease is gone, but the reality may be more complex. In estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer, dormant cancer cells can remain undetected in the bone marrow for a long time. These cells exploit their environment to survive and thrive even in the presence of treatment.

In a media release, Dr. Luker explained, “Cancer cells physically borrow molecules—proteins, messenger RNA—directly from mesenchymal stem cells. Essentially, mesenchymal stem cells act as very generous neighbors donating things that make cancer cells more aggressive and drug resistant.

The research also identified a key protein called GIV or Girdin, which plays a key role in aiding the survival of these cancer cells. GIV makes cells resistant to commonly used estrogen-targeting therapies, such as tamoxifen. Through laboratory experiments, researchers discovered that cancer cells form cellular tunnels to extract essential proteins from mesenchymal stem cells in the bone marrow. This unique interaction allows them to remain dormant as well as be ready to reactivate and proliferate at a later stage.

This study is a warning to the medical community. By understanding how these sleeper cells survive and evade treatment, researchers hope to develop new therapies that specifically target these dormant cells. Such advances could revolutionize cancer care, reducing the risk of cancer recurrence and improving long-term outcomes for breast cancer patients.

Although breakthroughs in research are paving the way for better treatments, early detection remains important. Here are the steps to get screened for breast cancer:

Self-examination: Do breast self-examination regularly to detect any unusual lumps, thickness or changes in skin texture.

Clinical Screening: Schedule regular mammograms, especially if you’re over 40 or have a family history of breast cancer.

Pay attention to symptoms: Pay attention to warning signs like nipple discharge, breast pain, or redness and swelling.

Consult a specialist: If you notice anything unusual, consult a healthcare provider immediately for further evaluation.

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