Rishabh Gaur - Department of Oncology
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the world and the leading cause of cancer-related death in women. Scientists have recently begun researching a possible novel treatment method that targets mitochondria in breast cancer patients. Mitochondria are also called the powerhouse of the cell, producing most of the energy cells need. They also help with important tasks like making building blocks for the cell, sending signals, cleaning up toxins, and controlling cell destiny. In breast cancer, mitochondria work differently to help the tumor grow, so targeting them could minimize the growth of tumors.
Inside mitochondria, more than 1000 proteins are doing various jobs. One crucial protein is called ClpP, and it acts as a quality control worker for mitochondrial proteins. Recently, scientists have come up with a new kind of treatment using ClpP agonists. These medications help to activate ClpP more than normal, causing it to break down certain proteins and disrupt mitochondrial functions. This action slows down the growth of breast cancer cells while allowing normal cells to remain intact. These ClpP agonists work uniquely and provide a fresh approach to treating breast cancer. Scientists certainly will continue exploring the utility of using ClpP agonists and other drugs that target mitochondria as treatment methods for breast cancer and other cancers.
References:
Wedam R, Greer YE, Wisniewski DJ, et al. Targeting Mitochondria with ClpP Agonists as a Novel Therapeutic Opportunity in Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel). 2023;15(7):1936. Published 2023 Mar 23. doi:10.3390/cancers15071936
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