Worm links cancer risk to ageing

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Public release date: 1-Jun-2006

http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2006-06/uom-wlc060106.php

Contact: Aeron Haworth

aeron.haworth@...

44-

University of Manchester

Worm links cancer risk to ageing

The reason why people are at greater risk of developing cancer as they

get older may be explained by research published today (June 2).

Scientists have discovered that a naturally produced protein that helps

protect us from cancer may also determine how long we live.

The findings – published in the highly respected journal Science – open

up a new avenue of inquiry into ageing as a risk factor for cancer.

" We have discovered that proteins that prevent cancer in humans by

ensuring that cells don't divide if they are damaged also determine

lifespan in the nematode worm, " explained Professor Gordon Lithgow, who

carried out the work at The University of Manchester.

" Our research has shown that these 'checkpoint proteins' – thought only

to operate in cells that divide – function in cells that no longer

divide as well. The fact that they appear to have dual functions opens a

new way to study the connection between ageing and cancer. "

Scientists have long known that, statistically, ageing is a huge factor

for cancer but have so far struggled to understand why that is.

Professor Lithgow said: " If we look at checkpoint proteins as a gear, we

have known for a long time that they drive the cancer engine; now we

know that they also drive the longevity engine. This discovery has

exciting potential as an area of inquiry into potential cellular links

between ageing and cancer. "

The research, which was completed at the Buck Institute in California

where Dr Lithgow now works, involved genetically removing checkpoint

proteins in the microscopic worm C. elegans. By doing so, the

researchers caused a 15-30% increase in the worm's lifespan.

" Given the role that checkpoint proteins play in the development of

cancer – or in causing tumours when the proteins are defective – the

findings raise the question of whether genetic variations in these

proteins in humans places some individuals at risk of cancer.

" Conversely, the checkpoint proteins may set a genetic course for a

shorter life but one that is free from cancer. "

Dr Dale Bredesen, Chief Executive and Scientific Director at the Buck

Institute, added: " This work brings a new richness and sophistication to

the way we think about longevity interventions.

" If we're smart about it, we might be able to design strategies where

you could keep checkpoint proteins active in dividing cells and stop

them working in cells that no longer divide, such as brain cells.

" Increasing the survival of brain cells or 'neurons' could provide a new

avenue of treatment for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. "

--

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