Novel Antibody Breakthrough In Breast Cancer Research: 5 Takeaways

The fight against breast cancer is a never-ending battle, but scientists are constantly pushing the boundaries of innovation and discovery in their quest to find new treatments. Recently, Professor Nicholas Tonks' laboratory made a significant breakthrough that offers hope in this fight. The team created a groundbreaking antibody that has the potential to suppress a critical enzyme associated with the spread of certain breast tumours. 

Understanding the Enemy: PTPRD and its Role

Breast cancer is a complex adversary, with various molecular players contributing to its progression. At the heart of this discovery lies PTPRD, an enzyme that is overexpressed in specific breast tumours. PTPRD belongs to the protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTP) family of molecules, which play a pivotal role in the regulation of numerous cellular functions. These enzymes collaborate with kinases, another group of enzymes, to modulate the behaviour of various proteins within our cells.

Kinases and Phosphates: A Delicate Balance

Kinases, the enzymatic counterparts to PTPs, are responsible for adding tiny chemical regulators called phosphates to proteins. This process plays a critical role in maintaining cellular balance and ensuring proper functioning. Disruptions in the addition or removal of phosphates can lead to various health issues, including inflammation, diabetes, and even cancer.

While kinases have been the focus of intensive research for decades, challenges persist, particularly in the context of cancer treatment. According to Professor Tonks, as reported by DT NEXT, "It's a multibillion-dollar industry, but many challenges remain. In cancer, patients will respond to these sorts of kinase inhibitors, and then, after a period of time, resistance develops."

The Promise of PTP Inhibition

This is where the novel antibody discovery comes into play. Drugs that can control the activity of PTPs have the potential to revolutionize cancer treatment. However, developing such drugs has proven to be a formidable task. Professor Tonks, who has been studying PTPs for years, refers to these enzymes as "an untapped resource for drug development." Unlike many enzymes that can be targeted with small molecules, PTPs like PTPRD present unique challenges.

The Innovative Solution: Zhe Qian's Synthetic Antibody

To address the challenge of inhibiting PTPRD activity, graduate student Zhe Qian devised a groundbreaking approach. The team developed a synthetic antibody, a molecule engineered to recognize and bind to its target in a highly specific manner. PTPRD molecules are situated in the outer membranes of cells, with portions extending inside and outside. Qian's ingenious antibody was designed to simultaneously grab onto two PTPRD molecules from outside a cell.

The Game-Changing Effect

The results were nothing short of spectacular. When the synthetic antibody binds to its target, it brings pairs of PTPRD proteins together into an inactive configuration. This not only prevents PTPRD from functioning but also leads to the protein's destruction. Remarkably, this discovery has a direct impact on breast cancer cells, making them less invasive.

The novel antibody that targets the PTPRD enzyme offers new hope in the treatment of specific breast tumours. This breakthrough not only highlights the complexity of breast cancer but also underscores the potential of PTP inhibition as a game-changer in cancer therapy.

Suggested reading: It's Time We Address Heightened Risk Of Breast Cancer In Young Women: Dr Richa Jagtap