Scientists in the Signalling in Cancer Networks group have explored the role of one particular cell signalling protein in bowel cancer, and in a study published in the journal Cancer Research, demonstrated that its mutation promotes tumour growth.

Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal or colon cancer, is the fourth most common cancer in the UK, and the second most common cause of cancer death. While the disease is very treatable if caught early, survival is poor for those diagnosed at a late stage. In order to fully understand the root of the disease, and to identify new ways to treat it, researchers need to tease apart the various genetic mistakes. One gene of interest – MLK4 – is frequently mutated in bowel cancer, but until now scientists haven’t fully studied the effects of such genetic changes. Now one of our research groups has looked at the consequences of MLK4 mutations on the growth of colon cancer cells.

Dr John Brognard, who led the study, said: “Previous studies have identified MLK4 mutations in a variety of cancers, so it’s important that we understand the role this gene plays.”

The team showed that the majority of genetic faults in MLK4 made it stop working. When they restored its function in cancer cells, they saw slower growth and smaller tumours.

“Our results show that MLK4 subdues tumour growth, and that when it accumulates genetic mistakes, it loses that ability. Knowing more about MLK4 and other similar proteins is vital if we are to find new ways to treat cancer,” added Dr Brognard.