The Pryuvate Kinase enzyme is an enzyme in humans which be used for two things, firstly it can be used to provide fuel for existing cells but secondly it can also form material for new cells. Scientist and cancer researchers have discovered that in cancer cells, the enzyme balance is tipped towards producing new cells and so aids the growth of tumors.
However in tests scientists were able to control the enzyme by changing its active site, which they achieved by adding naturally, occurring compounds such as phenylalanine. This allowed them to slow down or speed up the cancer cell growth. This research may allow scientists to develop a drug to slow down the growth of cancer cells, as when this compound is present in sufficient amounts, the pyruvate kinase enzyme stops generating fuel for cells and instead pushes cells towards growing and dividing.
Upon this groundbreaking research Professor Malcolm Walkinshaw has said, "We have effectively shown how to turn on and off the growth of real cancer cells.” And this ability may be vital in the future as it can prevent tumors spreading to vital organs, such as the heart, lungs and brain, in cancer patients, which will subsequently save thousands of lives.
However in tests scientists were able to control the enzyme by changing its active site, which they achieved by adding naturally, occurring compounds such as phenylalanine. This allowed them to slow down or speed up the cancer cell growth. This research may allow scientists to develop a drug to slow down the growth of cancer cells, as when this compound is present in sufficient amounts, the pyruvate kinase enzyme stops generating fuel for cells and instead pushes cells towards growing and dividing.
Upon this groundbreaking research Professor Malcolm Walkinshaw has said, "We have effectively shown how to turn on and off the growth of real cancer cells.” And this ability may be vital in the future as it can prevent tumors spreading to vital organs, such as the heart, lungs and brain, in cancer patients, which will subsequently save thousands of lives.