Exciting news from the research world! Chinese scientists have uncovered how cancer cells use lactate as a critical fuel to grow and even dodge our immune defenses. By deciphering the lactate transport mechanism, led by Professor Ye at Tianjin University, the team has found that a natural compound called silybin can block this pathway, specifically targeting the monocarboxylate transporter (MCT1) which cancers rely on.
This discovery is a game-changer because MCT1 helps cancer cells pump out lactate, balancing their internal environment and energizing nearby tumor cells. Silybin, renowned from traditional Chinese medicine, smartly binds to the transporter’s substrate pocket. With this precise action, it disrupts the cancer cell’s fuel supply, causing toxic buildup that suppresses liver cancer growth. 🔬💥
Laboratory experiments in both cell cultures and animal models have shown promising results, paving the way for the development of safer, more effective cancer therapies. This breakthrough not only deepens our understanding of cancer metabolism but also offers a fresh perspective on merging traditional remedies with modern science—a win for innovation and health!
Stay tuned as this innovative research could soon bring us closer to next-generation treatments in the fight against cancer. Science is on the move, and so are we! 😊
Reference(s):
Chinese scientists discover natural blocker of cancer growth
cgtn.com
