New Study Reveals Cancer's Secret Survival Trick
Scientists at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) have uncovered a critical mechanism that helps cancer cells resist treatment. Their research, published in Genes & Development, reveals that the protein MYC—overactive in most human cancers—plays a direct role in repairing DNA damage caused by chemotherapy and radiation.
"Our work shows that MYC isn't just helping cancer cells grow — it's also helping them survive some of the very treatments designed to kill them."
— Senior author Rosalie Sears
A Dual Threat: Growth and Survival
Traditionally known as a transcription factor that regulates cell growth, MYC has now been identified with a non-canonical role in DNA repair. When modified, the protein moves directly to sites of DNA damage and recruits the cell's repair machinery.
This discovery is particularly troubling for cancer treatment. DNA-damaging therapies like chemotherapy and radiation work by overwhelming cancer cells, causing lethal genetic chaos. When MYC boosts repair capabilities, it effectively reduces the efficacy of these treatments, allowing tumors to survive and grow.
The Pancreatic Cancer Connection
The study focused on patient-derived pancreatic cancer cells, a disease known for its aggressive nature and resistance to treatment. The findings show a direct link:
- High MYC activity correlates with increased DNA repair
- This activity is linked to worse patient outcomes
- Pancreatic cancer cells often exhibit both high MYC activity and substantial DNA damage
"These findings are particularly relevant for aggressive cancers like pancreatic cancer... Our work suggests that MYC helps these cells cope with that stress by actively promoting DNA repair."
— First author Gabriel Cohn
A Path Forward: Clinical Trials Underway
The research team isn't stopping at discovery. They are currently conducting a 'window of opportunity' clinical trial testing a MYC inhibitor called OMO-103 in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer.
Conflict of Interest Disclosure: Senior author Rosalie Sears reports consulting services for Revolution Medicine and Larkspur Bioscience, managed by OHSU.