Scientists discover potential key to cancer cell immortality

Scientists from Cancer Research UK have uncovered a biological process that could help to explain the process through which cancer cells are able to resist death.

Data from a study published in the journal Nature shows that cancer cells may be able to replace their telomeres – molecular caps found on the ends of chromosomes – by copying DNA sequences from elsewhere in the genome.

This allows the cells to circumvent the common trend towards telomeres shortening each time a cell divides, allowing them to survive and reproduce indefinitely.

Having observed this trend occurring in yeast cells, the Cancer Research UK scientists suggested that the process could be playing a role in tumour growth.

Dr Helen George, head of science information at Cancer Research UK, said: "It raises the possibility that drugs could be developed to restore their natural lifespan and halt the growth and spread of cancers."

Earlier this month, the organisation launched a clinical trial of a new drug which is hoped may be able treat advanced pancreatic cancer, one of the most difficult conditions to manage.