Researchers at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas have discovered a gene that works to control the growth of cancer cells. The gene produces a protein that removes phosphate from molecules that regulate cell growth, keeping the cells under control. When the gene works improperly, phosphate builds up, the cells divide out of control and develop into cancer.
Scientists hope to use the gene to suppress cancer tumor growth.
Researchers said it might be possible to run a test to see if someone is at risk for cancer within the next two to three years. Scientists are undertaking an effort called the Human Genome Project to identify all 70,000 to 80,000 human genes within the next several years. They say once all the cancer genes are identified, it will lead to better treatments, prevention and possibly even a cancer cure. It's just a question of time and a question of complete understanding. This is a major step in that direction.