Tiny Molecules, Big Possibilities: Texas A&M Researchers Explore A New Way To Slow Lung Cancer

Peter Nghiem collaborated on a study showing that two naturally occurring microRNAs may help slow the growth of non-small cell lung cancer by restoring normal cellular regulation.

A new Texas A&M study identifies naturally occurring microRNAs that help regulate cell growth and could one day support targeted cancer therapies.

Cancer develops when the body’s normal systems for controlling cell growth break down, allowing cells to multiply unchecked.

Now, Texas A&M researchers have identified two naturally occurring molecules that appear to help restore those controls, offering a potential new strategy for slowing the progression of lung cancer.

In a recent study , researchers from the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (VMBS) and the College of Education & Human Development found that microRNA-15a and microRNA-16 — small molecules that help regulate protein production within cells — can significantly reduce the growth and protein synthesis of non-small cell lung cancer cells.

The findings add to a growing body of research suggesting that these microRNAs play an important role in maintaining cellular balance and could someday serve as targets for therapies designed to slow cancer progression.

“These two specific microRNAs have a profound influence on cellular proteostasis, and the disruption of cellular proteostasis in most cancer cells is the reason that they become cancerous,” said Dr.

James Fluckey , associate dean for research and a professor in the Department of Kinesiology & Sport Management and the study’s principal investigator.

“The fact that we found two mircoRNAs that can influence that proteostasis to slow cancer progression is of profound importance.” Every cell constantly receives signals telling it when to grow, divide, repair itself, or slow down.

MicroRNAs help regulate those signals, ensuring cells maintain a healthy balance.

Peter Nghiem , a VMBS associate professor and co-author on the study, compared microRNAs to traffic lights.

The report adds to ongoing university-led research relevant to veterinary medicine, animal health, and clinical decision-making.

Source university website: Texas A&M VMBS

https://vetmed.tamu.edu/news/press-releases/micrornas-lung-cancer-cell-growth/