Breakthrough Study Reveals Key Protein in Lung Cancer

Scientists at Northwestern Medicine have made a groundbreaking discovery about a testis-specific protein that plays a crucial role in the development of lung cancer. Their findings were published in the journal Science Advances, shedding light on the mechanisms behind tumor growth.

The Role of BRDT in Lung Cancer

Research led by Dr. Lu Wang, an assistant professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, revealed that the transcription factor BRDT is significantly overexpressed in lung cancer cases. This raised an important question: What happens if we reduce its levels?

Dramatic Results from Suppressing BRDT

To find out, Dr. Wang and his team created cell lines derived from patients with small cell lung cancer. When they suppressed BRDT in these cancer cells, they noted a remarkable slowdown in tumor progression and a boost in survival rates during their lab experiments.

Unraveling the Connection: BRDT and BRD4

The study also delves into the intriguing relationship between BRDT and another protein, BRD4, known for its role in cancer. While both proteins share some functions, BRDT is shown to perform unique and critical tasks essential for cancer growth. Dr. Bin Zheng, a co-author of the study, elaborates that BRDT acts as a testis-specific version of BRD4, which is misexpressed in lung cancer cases, accelerating disease progression.

Towards Innovative Cancer Therapies

Encouraged by these findings, Dr. Ali Shilatifard, chair of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, along with Wang and Zheng, is exploring new treatment strategies targeting BRDT. 'We are advancing therapeutics aimed at BRD4 and BRDT, representing a promising new frontier in lung cancer treatment,' Shilatifard asserted.

A Collaborative Effort at Northwestern University

Both Shilatifard and Wang are integral members of the prestigious Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, highlighting the collaborative effort behind this impactful research.

Funding Support for Groundbreaking Research

This study received funding from prominent National Institutes of Health grants, underscoring its significance in the ongoing fight against lung cancer.