Stem cell study reveals complexity of glue molecule’s role in cancer

A protein molecule that 'glues' cells together and so has a key role in cancer is also responsible for many other important functions of cells, a new study has found. University of Manchester scientists say their unexpected findings are important because they could lead to a better understanding of why some cancer cells are difficult to eradicate in patients and lead to new cancer treatments. The research - published in PLoS One today - looked at the role of the cell-adhesion molecule E-cadherin in embryonic stem (ES) cells. As well as the expected findings associated with changes in adhesion, the team found that the protein may also regulate up to 25% of the genes within cells. "E-cadherin is a 'glue' that keeps cells together in the body - without it we would not develop beyond a bundle of cells a few days after conception,” said Chris Ward, who led the study in the University's School of Dentistry. "E-cadherin is also important during cancer progression from benign to malignant states, with loss of this molecule leading to increased movement of the cells which can lead to secondary tumours within the body. "Whilst E-cadherin has been studied intensively there has been no research that has identified all of the genes that E-cadherin regulates.