Breakthrough Discovery Targets Protein Behind Cancer Spread, Offering New Hope in Treatment
Cancer metastasis, the process by which cancer cells spread to other parts of the body, has been one of the most elusive challenges in cancer treatment. But researchers at Georgia Southern University may have just made a significant leap forward in the fight against it. A team led by Dr. Mark dela Cerna, a biochemistry professor, has uncovered molecules that target a key protein responsible for metastasis, offering a potential breakthrough in cancer therapy.
According to the American Cancer Society, more than 63,000 new cancer diagnoses were reported in Georgia alone last year, contributing to the over 2 million diagnoses nationwide. Despite the overwhelming numbers, breakthroughs like the one at Georgia Southern are offering glimmers of hope.
The Discovery: A Protein That Fuels Metastasis
Dr. Mark dela Cerna and his team have focused their efforts on targeting a protein called phosphatase of regenerating liver three, or PRL-3. This protein plays a critical role in enabling cancer cells to spread to other parts of the body, making it a prime target for cancer treatment.
“If you turn off this protein, you can minimize cancer aggressiveness and metastasis,” said dela Cerna. This breakthrough could potentially help slow or even prevent the spread of cancer, a development that could transform treatment strategies.
A Revolutionary Molecule: The First Step Towards Treatment
In 2022, the team found their first successful molecule that could block PRL-3 from binding and spreading. This marked a major milestone in the research. Unlike previous attempts, the molecules discovered by dela Cerna and his collaborators have a unique molecular mechanism, which ensures they bind specifically to the PRL-3 protein.
Dr. dela Cerna highlighted the importance of this discovery: “When you want to develop a drug, you need to make sure that your molecule interacts specifically with your target protein. To our knowledge, the molecule we found is the first that can achieve this binding with PRL-3.”
The molecule’s success has opened the door to further research. Since this first discovery, the team has been able to identify additional molecules that bind to the PRL-3 protein, laying the groundwork for future treatments.
A Global Collaboration for Breakthrough Research
The discovery would not have been possible without a collaborative effort involving researchers from various institutions. Dr. Jessica Blackburn at the University of Kentucky, Dr. Donghan Lee at the Korea Basic Science Institute, Deji Agbowuro at South University – Savannah, and Dr. Brandon Quillian, assistant professor of organic chemistry at Georgia Southern, all contributed to this groundbreaking research.
Their collaboration has led to advancements in understanding how these molecules interact with PRL-3. Dr. dela Cerna even traveled to South Korea to work with some of the most advanced research tools available. The NMR spectrometer, one of the world’s most powerful magnets, has been crucial in studying the interactions of the protein with the molecules discovered.
The Path Forward: Identifying More Targeted Molecules
Following the initial success, the research team has not stopped. They are now focused on identifying more molecules that can bind to the PRL-3 protein. By finding molecules that resemble their first successful discovery, the team believes they are inching closer to understanding which parts of these molecules are critical for binding.
“It’s motivating that we have that initial validation,” said dela Cerna. “Finding one molecule that works means we’re on the right track. And now we’re looking for more that can do the same thing.”
This discovery is a crucial step in the race to develop drugs that could target cancer metastasis more effectively. With additional research and testing, these molecules could eventually be developed into treatments that help prevent the spread of cancer and improve patient outcomes.
A Hands-On Approach: Students Making a Difference
The research has also provided invaluable hands-on experience for students at Georgia Southern University. Thanks to funding from a National Institutes of Health grant, dela Cerna has been able to involve undergraduate and graduate students in the project.
Grace Bennett, a graduate student working toward her master’s in applied physical science at Georgia Southern, shared her thoughts on the experience. While she doesn’t feel the weight of trying to cure cancer, she feels driven by the challenge. “I find the vigor in solving the puzzle,” Bennett said, noting that the issue has had a personal impact on her family.
Her perspective highlights the human side of the research—how scientific advancements are not just about molecules and proteins but also about making a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by cancer.
