New breast cancer research funding for Surrey
Friday 23 October 2009
Scientists are close to discovering a new way for breast cells to protect themselves from developing into breast cancer cells.
Dr Richard Morgan, a scientist from the University of Surrey, has been awarded a pilot grant by Breast Cancer Campaign to study the effect of a molecule called HXR9 on cell death.
The grant forms part of £2 million awarded to 20 projects in the UK and Ireland.
When breast cells become damaged and no longer work properly, the body tells them to self destruct in a process called apoptosis. When this process fails the cells grow out of control and cancer develops.
Dr Morgan and his team at Surrey have developed a new molecule called HXR9 which will break down the barriers breast cancer cells use to protect themselves from apoptosis. It is hoped this will lead to new ways to beat the disease.
Dr Morgan said, “We are grateful for this funding from Breast Cancer Campaign. We have seen some great results from previous HXR9 research in other cancers and we hope this translates into effective new treatment options for people with breast cancer.”
Arlene Wilkie, Director of Research and Policy, Breast Cancer Campaign, said: “This innovative research will help us discover new ways to overcome the problem of the breast cancer cells’ ability to survive. We hope that new treatments can then be developed for those people who don’t respond to the drugs currently available to them.”
Media Enquiries
Peter La, Press Office at the University of Surrey, Tel: +44 (0)1483 689191, or Email mediarelations@surrey.ac.uk
