Study Explores Electromagnetic Fields in Preventing Breast Cancer Metastasis
Understanding Cancer Metastasis
A recent study conducted by researchers at Ohio State University investigated the potential of electromagnetic fields to inhibit the spread of breast cancer cells throughout the body. Metastasis, which refers to the dissemination of cancer cells via the lymphatic system, accounts for nearly 90 percent of deaths related to cancer. Gaining insights into cancer cell metastasis is crucial for cancer research, prompting scientists worldwide to explore strategies to hinder the spread of cancer.
The Impact of Metastatic Breast Cancer
Breast cancer originates in the breast tissue when cells begin to proliferate uncontrollably. Once breast cancer becomes metastatic, it can migrate to vital organs such as the lungs, bones, liver, or brain, transforming a potentially treatable condition into a life-threatening one. Therefore, researchers are actively seeking methods to prevent the dissemination of breast cancer cells in order to slow or halt cancer progression.
Research Findings on Electromagnetic Fields
Development of a New Tool
The rate of breast cancer cell migration varies among individuals, complicating predictions regarding mutations and spread. However, extensive research on cell migration has underscored its importance in cancer metastasis. The Ohio State University research team discovered that low-intensity electromagnetic fields could effectively inhibit the movement of breast cancer cells. Their findings were published in the journal *Communications Biology*, where they utilized breast cancer cells cultivated in a laboratory setting.
The researchers designed a device known as a Helmholtz coil to apply a consistent electromagnetic energy level to various breast cell types. A secondary instrument was developed to monitor the directional movement of these cells, illustrating how different electromagnetic fields influenced their behavior. This setup was designed to closely replicate conditions found within the human body in a controlled environment.
Effects on Cancer Cell Mobility
The study revealed that exposure to low-intensity electromagnetic fields diminished the mobility of specific breast cancer cell types by inhibiting the formation of long, thin extensions at the cell edges.
Response of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells
Triple-negative metastatic breast cancer cells are distinct from other cancer cells due to their lack of estrogen, progesterone, and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 genes. Traditional cancer therapies often target these receptors, rendering triple-negative cells resistant to many treatments.
In this investigation, triple-negative breast cancer cells exhibited the greatest responsiveness to the electromagnetic field. The researchers proposed that combining electromagnetic energy with targeted drug therapies could significantly affect the spread of these resilient cancer cells.
Future Implications and Next Steps
Although the study was conducted in a laboratory setting and requires further validation in animal models and ultimately in human trials, the researchers are optimistic about their findings. They observed a marked reduction in the metastatic potential of breast cancer cells in response to electromagnetic fields. While practical application for preventing the spread of breast cancer cells in humans is still a long way off, these results represent a significant advancement in the research of metastatic breast cancer.
Reference
Ayush Arpit Garg et al., Electromagnetic fields alter the motility of metastatic breast cancer cells. *Communications Biology* 2, Article number:303 (2019).
Image Credit
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