Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Researchers Discover How Tumors ’Steal’ Energy From Fat Cells
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san Francisco, CA – In a significant breakthrough, researchers at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) have identified a novel mechanism driving the aggressive growth of triple-negative breast cancer. The study, published Wednesday in Nature Communications, reveals that these cancer cells actively siphon energy from nearby fat cells through microscopic channels, fueling their rapid proliferation. This discovery presents a strategic opportunity for developing targeted therapies to disrupt this energy supply and halt disease progression.
Understanding Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a particularly challenging subtype, accounting for approximately 10-15% of all breast cancers. It’s characterized by the lack of estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors, and HER2 protein, making it unresponsive to common hormone therapies and HER2-targeted drugs (American Cancer society, 2024). This frequently enough leads to more aggressive disease and poorer outcomes.
Researchers observed that fat cells surrounding TNBC tumors appear to diminish as the cancer develops. the UCSF team discovered that cancer cells establish direct connections with these fat cells, creating pathways for energy transfer.
Through these channels, cancer cells signal fat cells to release energy reserves, effectively hijacking the body’s own resources to support tumor growth. Blocking these connections in laboratory models successfully inhibited tumor growth.
“The cancers thrive by hijacking the energy sources of the body, and I have identified how this mechanism works in triple-negative breast cancer,” explained Dr. Andrei Goga, professor of cell biology and tissue engineering at the Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center of UCSF, and lead author of the study.”it is indeed a major opportunity for us to develop effective strategies to treat the most aggressive forms of breast cancer.”
The research involved analyzing both patient-derived fat and tumor cells,and also conducting experiments on laboratory models of the disease.
Clinical Implications and Future Research
While drugs specifically targeting these energy-transfer mechanisms in breast cancer are not yet available, similar approaches are already being evaluated in clinical trials for brain cancer. This provides a promising pathway for accelerating the development of TNBC treatments.
Did You Know?
Triple-negative breast cancer disproportionately affects younger women and women of African American descent (National Breast Cancer Foundation,2023).
The study was funded by the Defense Department and the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Key Findings at a Glance
| Finding | Details |
|---|---|
| energy Source | TNBC cells utilize energy stolen from surrounding fat cells. |
| Mechanism | Microscopic channels facilitate energy transfer. |
| Impact of Blocking | Tumor growth is inhibited when these connections are disrupted. |
| Publication | Nature Communications, August 2025 |
Pro Tip:
Early detection remains crucial for all types of breast cancer. Regular self-exams and screenings are vital for improving outcomes.
What further research is needed to translate these findings into effective treatments? How might this discovery impact the future of personalized cancer therapy?
The Evolving Landscape of Breast Cancer Research
Breast cancer research has undergone a revolution in recent decades, shifting from a one-size-fits-all approach to increasingly personalized treatments.Advances in genomics and proteomics are allowing researchers to identify specific molecular targets and develop therapies tailored to individual patients. The discovery of this energy-stealing mechanism represents another step forward in this direction, highlighting the importance of understanding the complex interplay between cancer cells and their microenvironment.
Frequently asked Questions About Triple-Negative Breast cancer
- What is triple-negative breast cancer? It’s a type of breast cancer that lacks estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors, making it harder to treat with standard therapies.
- How is triple-negative breast cancer treated? Treatment typically involves chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation therapy.
- Is triple-negative breast cancer curable? While challenging, TNBC is ofen curable, especially when detected early.
- What are the risk factors for triple-negative breast cancer? Risk factors include being younger, having a BRCA1 gene mutation, and being of African American descent.
- What is the significance of this new research? This research identifies a new way cancer cells get energy,opening doors for new treatments.
Disclaimer: This article provides general details and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
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