Scientists have discovered a new way of slowing the growth of prostate cancer. Experiments have successfully targeted the activity of non-cancerous cells that encourage the tumour to grow.

By changing the way these “fibroblast” cells behave, scientists were able to slow down the growth of cancer in mice. Experts say it could form the basis of a “revolution” in the treatment of the disease.

Lead researcher Dr Axel Thomson from the Medical Research Council in Edinburgh, said “This is an extremely exciting development. By targeting the fibroblasts that control the growth of the cancer, these new treatments could be both more effective and likely to lead to significantly fewer side effects.”

The team found that turning on key genes inside “fibroblast” cells in prostate tumours dramatically reduced the size of the tumours.

Source : Daily Mail