More promising research

[EchoUK]

This is an update on Octobers release -

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/7136632.stm

[katems]

Thanks for the link Ruth.
I looked it up and it does seem promising
I just hope and pray that they follow it up very very soon!

Kate
x

[SimplyStar]

Destruction of Cancer Cells

Oncolytic viruses utilize multiple mechanisms of action to kill cancer cells—cell lysis, cell apoptosis, antiangiogenesis and cell necrosis. Once the virus infects the tumor cell, it compromises the cell's natural defense mechanisms, giving the virus extra time to thrive. The virus then begins to replicate. The virus continues to replicate until finally the tumor cell can no longer contain the virus and "lyses" (bursts) the host cell's membrane. The tumor cell is destroyed and the newly created viruses are spread to neighboring cancer cells to continue the cycle. It is important to remember that all oncolytic viruses are intended to replicate only in cancer cells and to pass through normal tissue without causing harm. Hence, once all the tumor cells are eradicated, the oncolytic virus no longer has the ability to replicate and the immune system clears it from the body.


this is the theory that engineered viruses can be used to target cancer cells  clinical trials going on world wide.   This was first tried back in the 50s, but lack of technical knowledge,  until now,  blocked it.  They are working to see if it can be useful alone and in combination with radiation and chemo.  google  Oncolytic viruses  lots of info about it.

[freshair]

Interesting, I hope they can check on this protein in the VERY NEAR future.