American molecular biologists have engineered a panel of short molecules. These agents can attach to critical sites on the HIF1 and HIF2 proteins, and when used alongside immunotherapy, they successfully inhibit the progression of several aggressive cancer types. It is noted that when these proteins are overproduced, they shield cancer cells from the damaging effects of prolonged oxygen deprivation. The findings of this investigation are detailed in the Journal of Experimental Medicine.
“Our experimentation has already demonstrated that merging immunotherapy with these specific molecules enhanced the response of murine subjects to treatment across various cancer types,” stated Greg Semenza, a professor at Johns Hopkins University (USA).
The scientific community’s focus on these proteins stems from the frequent observation of substantial oxygen scarcity within tumors. This condition not only fuels the proliferation of neoplasms but also safeguards them against assaults by the body’s immune cells. Consequently, developing molecules capable of nullifying cancer cells’ resilience to hypoxia will render tumors more susceptible to both chemotherapy and immunotherapy.
Previously, oncologist Basir Bammatov noted that proper dietary habits are paramount in preventing oncological diseases and contribute to lowering the incidence risk for colorectal, gastric, breast, and pancreatic cancers. Conversely, he mentioned that excessive consumption of simple sugars, fast food, and high-fat items in one’s diet elevates the cancer risk.
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