In a recently published study, the University of Colorado, the Montefiore Einstein (MECCC) Cancer Center and the University of Utrecht (Netherlands) are correlating between respiratory infections and the awakening of sleeping cancer cells.
“During the COVVI-19 pandemic, anecdotal reports suggested a possible increase in cancer mortality rates, reinforcing the hypothesis that severe inflammation could help to awaken dormant CCDs”said Dr. Aguirre-Ghiso, co-director of the study in a press release.
Mouse tests
To support this hypothesis, tests were carried out on mice with dormant cancer cells in the lungs. After their contamination by flu or the COVVI-19 virus, in both cases, the dormant cells were watched.
A proliferation followed a few days later and the appearance of metastatic lesions after two weeks.
“Dormant cancer cells are comparable to the embers of an abandoned campfire, and the respiratory viruses are comparable to a violent wind that rekindles the flames”according to Doctor Degregori, principal author of the study.
At the origin of this alarm clock: the protein “Interleukin 6” which releases immune cells in the event of infection.
Identification of this protein “as a key mediator of the alarm clock” cancer cells will lead researchers to develop inhibitors or targeted immunotherapy in order to “Prevent or alleviate the resurgence of metastases after a viral infection”concluded Doctor Aguirre-Ghiso.
“By understanding the underlying mechanisms, we will actively work on the development of interventions to limit the risk of metastatic progression in cancer survivors who suffer from respiratory viral infections.”