Key Nervous System Components Influence Gastrointestinal Tumour Growth
New research reveals that common nervous system components, present in the gastrointestinal tract, influence tumour growth, offering new opportunities for cancer treatment.
The gut has its own nervous system, often referred to as the "second brain". Neuropeptides, signalling factors produced and released by nerves, play a key role in this system. They relay messages throughout the nervous system by connecting to receptors on the outside of cells, influencing various processes.
- CGRP, a common neuropeptide, and its receptor RAMP1 have been found to influence tumour growth in colorectal and stomach cancers.
Our gut contains its very own nervous system and is commonly regarded as the second brain.
Australian researchers at the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute (ONJCRI) and La Trobe School of Cancer Medicine made this discovery, creating promising new avenues for treatment with existing approved therapies.
Author's summary: Researchers identify nervous system components influencing gastrointestinal tumour growth.