Researchers have stumbled upon an unexpected finding while studying a specific gene in immune cells. While investigating its role in a type of white blood cell called a macrophage, they discovered the gene plays a critical role in lung cancer development. This opens doors for potential new anti-cancer therapies.
Targeting Septin7 in Immune Cells
The study focused on a gene called Septin7, specifically deleting it in myeloid cells, a type of immune cell that includes macrophages:
- Precise Targeting: Researchers used a genetic engineering technique to remove Septin7 only in myeloid cells, allowing them to study its specific role there.
- No Major Impact on Macrophages: Surprisingly, macrophages lacking Septin7 functioned normally in terms of engulfing bacteria and responding to inflammatory signals.
A Surprising Discovery in the Lungs
The study took an unexpected turn when researchers looked at lung cancer development:
- Dual Role of Lyz2-Cre: The genetic tool used to target myeloid cells is also active in lung cells called type II pneumocytes.
- Rapid Tumor Growth: Mice without Septin7 deletion developed lung cancer very quickly.
- Delayed Tumor Onset: Septin7-deficient mice, however, showed a significant delay in lung cancer development, surviving much longer.
Septin7: A Key Player in Cancer
These findings suggest a crucial role for Septin7 in lung cancer:
- Essential for Cancer Growth: Septin7 seems to be absolutely necessary for the development of lung tumors driven by a specific cancer-causing mutation (Kras).
- Potential Anti-Cancer Target: This discovery highlights Septin7 as a potential target for developing new cancer therapies.
Cytokinesis and Septin7: A Separate Story
The study also sheds light on Septin7’s role in cell division within macrophages:
- Cell Division Defect: Macrophages lacking Septin7 displayed abnormalities in cell division, suggesting Septin7 is important for this process.
- Function Not Affected: Despite the cell division defect, these macrophages functioned normally in other aspects.
A New Direction for Cancer Research
This research on Septin7 offers exciting possibilities for future cancer treatment:
- Targeting a New Vulnerability: Septin7 presents a potential new target for developing drugs that specifically target cancer cells.
- Combination Therapies: Combining Septin7-based therapies with existing treatments could offer more effective strategies.
- Understanding Cancer Progression: Further research on Septin7 can provide valuable insights into lung cancer development.
By accidentally uncovering Septin7’s role in lung cancer, researchers have opened a new avenue for exploring potential anti-cancer therapies. This finding has the potential to significantly impact the fight against lung cancer in the future.