Melanoma Cells Retain a Functional Self-Destruct Mechanism

In this study, the investigators reported that the pathway begins with the melanoma differentiation-associated gene-5 (mda-5), which activates a protein called NOXA. The expression of NOXA (phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate-induced protein 1) is regulated by the tumor-suppressor p53, and NOXA has been shown to be involved in p53-mediated apoptosis.

"The present research provides a path that could lead with further studies and a phase I clinical trial for safety to the development of a strategy that reenergizes the immune system to destroy this highly aggressive cancer,” said contributing author Dr. Paul B. Fisher, professor of human and molecular genetics at Virginian Commonwealth University.

Related Links:
Virginia Commonwealth University
Spanish National Cancer Research Center