Last Updated:
According to a recent study, Taiwanese researchers found that DUSP2 gene deficiency aids cancer cell growth, especially in pancreatic cancer, stressing early detection and the immune system’s role in cancer
The study revealed that DUSP2 deficiency also affects the immune system. (Representative/Shutterstock)
Cancer has been causing widespread concern due to its impact on countless lives. Early detection is crucial, as the disease often presents subtle symptoms in its initial stages. Failure to recognise these signs can hinder timely intervention and reduce the chances of survival.
Currently, cancer research is a global priority, with scientists focusing on understanding its symptoms, prevention, treatment, and potential for survival.
Taiwanese researchers have made significant strides in this field, uncovering a new silent symptom of cancer. This discovery highlights the importance of vigilance, as early detection remains challenging. Ignoring potential warning signs can have severe consequences.
Recently, researchers in Taiwan have made a significant discovery, identifying DUSP2 gene deficiency as a contributing factor to cancer cell growth. Understanding the symptoms and preventive measures associated with this disease is of paramount importance.
According to a report published in the Taipei Times, researchers from National Chung Cheng University (CCU) and National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) have identified a novel mechanism by which cancer cells compromise the body’s immune system. The absence of a gene known as DUSP2 facilitates cancer cell proliferation, particularly increasing the risk of pancreatic cancer.
According to ANI, the research, led by CCU Department of Physiology Chair Professor Tsai Shaw-jenq and NCKU College of Medicine Dean Shan Yan-shen, was published last month in the journal Molecular Cancer.
Researchers investigated how pancreatic cancer cells with KRAS mutations evade the immune system and spread. Their study, “Intercellular TIMP-1-CD63 signalling directs the evolution of immune escape and metastasis in KRAS-mutated pancreatic cancer cells,” involved laboratory experiments with mice and spatial transcriptomic analysis of tumour samples.
“Understanding interactions between various cells in pancreatic cancer tumour micro-environments is of great significance for developing blocking strategies, improving early diagnosis rates and improving patient prognoses,” Shan said.
The study further highlights the connection between chronic inflammation and the advancement of cancer. It reveals that macrophages, immune cells typically tasked with eliminating harmful pathogens, can actually contribute to tumour growth under certain circumstances.
The research team conducted experiments on mice, observing tumour growth in their heads and cellular damage in their heads and eyes. Furthermore, the study revealed that DUSP2 deficiency also affects the immune system. This finding suggests that existing cancer symptoms could manifest in various parts of the body, potentially leading to further cancer cell growth.
Scientists emphasise the crucial link between cancer and the immune system. A robust immune response is known to aid recovery from various diseases. Conversely, a weakened immune system increases an individual’s susceptibility to illness.
According to a MayoClinic report, swelling can be a significant indicator of cancer, particularly in breast, lung, and blood cancers.
The recent research has identified swelling or inflammation as a silent symptom of pancreatic cancer. This type of cancer compromises the digestive system, leading to appetite loss, weight loss, and pain.
(Disclaimer: This article is based on reports and information available on the internet. News18 is not affiliated with it and News18 is not responsible for it)
