Doctors at Tata Memorial Centre have made a groundbreaking discovery in cancer research. Their decade-long study has revealed a mechanism for cancer metastasis and led to the development of nutraceutical therapy to reduce its risk.
The research findings indicate that dying cancer cells release ‘chromosome fragments’ (chromatin) which, under certain circumstances, can fuse with healthy cells and give rise to new tumors. This breakthrough offers hope for improved cancer treatment and a better understanding of the metastatic process.
Dr. Indraneel Mittra, who spearheaded the research, emphasized the potential risks associated with current cancer treatment methods. While chemotherapy and radiotherapy effectively target primary tumor cells, they also trigger the release of chromatins, known as cfChPs, from dying cancer cells. These fragments can potentially infiltrate healthy cells in other parts of the body through the bloodstream, leading to the formation of new tumors.
The study’s findings shed light on the hazards of chemo and radiotherapy, prompting a reevaluation of current cancer treatment practices. The research team’s work has paved the way for the development of nutraceuticals, which are food products enriched with bioactive compounds or medicinal properties, to mitigate the risk of cancer metastasis.
This groundbreaking research has the potential to revolutionize cancer treatment and offers new hope for patients battling this devastating disease. The use of nutraceuticals as a preventive measure could significantly impact the future of cancer care, providing a holistic approach to managing the risk of metastasis and improving patient outcomes.
As the medical community continues to explore innovative approaches to cancer treatment, the discovery made by Tata Memorial Centre’s doctors marks a significant milestone in the fight against cancer. This breakthrough has the potential to reshape the landscape of cancer care, offering new avenues for more effective and targeted treatment strategies.
