Scientists find a weak spot in one of the deadliest brain cancers

Researchers may have found a new way to weaken glioblastoma’s defenses against treatment. Blocking a protein called SET prevented tumors from forming in preclinical models, while targeting related proteins made cancer cells more vulnerable to radiation. The strategy works by restoring activity of PP2A, an enzyme that glioblastoma cells appear to suppress.

Human testing will be needed to determine whether the approach is safe and effective. Scientists find a weak spot in one of the deadliest brain cancers. Researchers at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G.

Solove Research Institute have now identified a protein called SET as a possible target that could make glioblastoma cells easier to kill with existing therapies. Rather than replacing current treatments, the strategy aims to help them work better. In preclinical experiments, suppressing SET prevented tumors from developing.