According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, with an estimated 281,550 new cases expected to be diagnosed in women in the United States alone in 2021.

While many factors have been linked to an increased risk of developing breast cancer, researchers in the United States have identified an unexpected contributor that could shed new light on the disease’s origins.

Background on Breast Cancer

Before we dive into this new research, it’s essential to understand the basics of breast cancer. Like all cancer, breast cancer occurs when normal cells in the breast tissue begin to grow and divide uncontrollably, forming a mass or lump.

This growth can sometimes lead to the development of tumors.

While the exact causes of breast cancer are still not entirely understood, researchers have identified several factors that can increase a person’s risk of developing the disease. Some of these factors include:.

A family history of breast cancer
Being female
Getting older
Exposure to high levels of estrogen
Having certain gene mutations, such as the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes

The New Research

In a new study published in the journal Nature Communications, researchers at the University of California, San Diego, have identified a new potential risk factor for breast cancer development: the protein c-Rel.

C-Rel is a type of protein that plays a role in the immune system’s response to infection and disease. Previous research has linked this protein to the development of other types of cancer, such as lymphoma and leukemia.

However, this is the first study to identify c-Rel’s potential role in breast cancer development.

Through a series of experiments using human breast cancer cells and mouse models, the researchers found that increased levels of c-Rel in breast cancer cells were associated with an increased risk of cancer spread and associated fatality.

Specifically, the team found that high c-Rel levels led to increased activation of genes known to promote cancer growth and metastasis, or the spread of cancer to other parts of the body.

What Does This Mean?

While this new research is still early, it has the potential to significantly impact our understanding of breast cancer development and potential treatments.

By identifying a previously unknown risk factor for breast cancer, researchers can work on developing new therapies that specifically target this protein and prevent its harmful effects.

Additionally, this study could help identify individuals at increased risk for developing breast cancer, particularly those with known or suspected c-Rel mutations.

This information could allow for earlier detection and treatment of the disease, ultimately improving outcomes and saving lives.

What’s Next?

The researchers at the University of California, San Diego, are continuing to investigate c-Rel’s role in breast cancer development further.

In the future, this research could lead to clinical trials and the development of new treatments that target this protein specifically.

Overall, this new research is promising and opens up new avenues for breast cancer research and treatment.

While there is still much to learn about this protein, its potential role in breast cancer development could fundamentally change how we approach the disease, leading to more effective treatments and better outcomes for patients.