Alph-fetoprotein, or AFP, seems to halt the growth of existing tumours and prevent new ones from appearing, a study found. Although experts stress the findings need to be repeated in human tests, they believe the molecule could eventually be converted into a breast cancer drug.AFP is produced by the body in response to pregnancy hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone, which are known to fuel the growth of some types of tumour. Hormones in pregnancy, such as oestrogen, all induce AFP, which directly inhibits the growth of breast cancer, said lead researcher Dr Herbert Jacobson. The body has a natural defence system
against breast cancer. AFP needs to be safely harnessed and developed into a drug that can be used to protect women from breast cancer.
Studies have shown that hormones released during pregnancy, such as oestrogen, progesterone and human chorionic gonadotropin, may protect against breast cancer. But the latest research suggests AFP may be the key to counteracting the cancercausing properties of these hormones.
It is produced by the liver and the foetal yolk sac, the membrane which supplies nutrients to a foetus in the early stages of pregnancy. Dr Powel Brown, professor of medicine and cancer prevention at the University of Texas Anderson Cancer Centre, said the findings were important – but it was too early to begin testing AFP on people.
This study is promising and suggests that additional animal studies need to be done before translation to humans, he added. Dr Jacobson and colleagues have isolated a fragment of the AFP molecule and are trying to develop it into a drug.
It will be about ten years before a treatment is available for patients. Arlene Wilkie, of Breast Cancer Campaign welcomed the findings, but said more extensive long-term studies
are needed before it could benefit patients. She said eating a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly were the best ways to lower breast cancer risk.
Post published in: Analysis