Israeli researchers at Tel Aviv University have made a significant breakthrough in the treatment of bone metastasis in breast cancer patients. The groundbreaking study, led by Prof. Neta Erez and Dr. Lea Monteran, has developed a new therapeutic strategy using existing medications to inhibit the spread of cancer to the bone.

When breast cancer metastasizes to the bone, it often leads to the destruction of bone tissues, fractures, and severe pain. In 75% of cases, the malignancy spreads to the bone if left unchecked. However, the researchers have shown that a combination of drugs already available on the market can hinder bone metastasis and improve survival rates for patients.

The study utilized both an animal model and tissue samples from patients in Israel and the US to demonstrate the efficacy of the new therapeutic strategy. The findings suggest that the treatment could potentially be applied to patients with breast cancer as well as other types of cancer in the future.

According to Prof. Neta Erez, a tumor is more than just a collection of cancer cells. It is a complex ecosystem involving interactions between various cell types, including immune cells, connective tissues, and blood vessels. The researchers aimed to disrupt the communication channels between cancer cells and healthy cells at an early stage to hinder the growth of cancer cells in the bones.

The paper detailing the study, titled ‘Clofazimine Reduces Side Effects from Dual Immune Checkpoint Blockade,’ has been published in the journal Cancer Discovery. The researchers’ findings offer hope for improved treatment strategies for breast cancer patients and potentially for those with other types of cancer as well.

With the use of advanced technologies such as MRI and CT imaging, the diagnosis of bone metastasis often occurs when the disease has already progressed significantly, making it challenging to cure the patient. This new therapeutic strategy offers a promising approach to addressing the progression of bone metastasis and improving the outcomes for cancer patients.

The study represents a significant step forward in the field of cancer research and treatment, providing new insights into combating the spread of cancer to the bone. The potential application of existing medications to inhibit bone metastasis could have far-reaching implications for the future of cancer treatment.