New Weakness Found in Common Cancer Gene

Researchers at NYU have discovered a weakness in one of the most common mutating gene in cancer cells, as reported on February 10th. They call this gene mutant K-Ras.

By cutting off activity to H-Ras and N-Ras, two related genes to mutant K-Ras, mutant K-Ras' ability to check damage to their DNA is blocked. Then common chemotherapy should be much more effective in killing the cancer cells.

Nature of Science Themes:

• Collaborative: Many researchers at NYU have been working together on this.
• Evidence: Experiments in human cancer cells have shown that mutant K-Ras' growth is highly dependent on its constant need to check their DNA for damages (BiologyNewsNet).
• Credibility: The researchers have provided credible and understandable reasons for their findings.

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