Tiny Cellular 'Antennae' May Drive Cancer Growth, Researchers Discover

Recent research highlights the surprising role of microscopic structures called primary cilia—tiny, hair-like projections on cells—in cancer development and drug resistance. Traditionally considered irrelevant to cancer, these cellular 'antennae' are now suspected of acting as hidden switches that fuel tumor growth and help cancer cells evade treatments.

Published in the journal Oncogene, the study from Brunel University of London investigates how cilia function in healthy cells versus cancer cells. In normal cells, cilia are vital for growth and repair, detecting signals such as fluid flow and chemical changes in the environment. However, in cancer cells, these structures can be hijacked to activate survival pathways, enabling tumors to multiply uncontrollably, invade nearby tissues, and resist chemotherapy.

Dr. Barbara Tanos, a lead researcher, explained that cilia operate like a Rubik's cube—if one side is manipulated, it can change the cellular instructions on all sides. This analogy underscores the complex role of cilia in cell signaling. Notably, some cancer cells that develop resistance to kinase inhibitor drugs have been found to have longer and more prominent cilia, suggesting a link between cilia and drug resistance.

The study reveals that molecules within cilia, normally involved in cell regulation, are co-opted by tumors to support growth. Importantly, many of these molecules can be targeted with existing medications used for other diseases, presenting a promising avenue for new treatments. By disrupting cilia formation or silencing their signaling pathways, scientists hope to improve the efficacy of current cancer therapies and overcome drug resistance.

This emerging understanding of the role of cilia in cancer signifies a potential breakthrough in oncology. Targeting these structures could lead to innovative strategies to treat resistant tumors, transforming the way we approach cancer therapy in the future.

For more details, see the original research: Primary cilia and cancer: a tale of many faces.