Researchers have identified nine blood proteins that are strongly linked to an increased risk of developing breast cancer, a discovery that could transform how the disease is detected and treated.
This exciting breakthrough could lead to earlier detection, more personalized treatments and even new uses for existing medicines.
Researchers studied data from over 130,000 women and used advanced genetic tools to connect these proteins to different types of breast cancer, including Luminal A, Luminal B, HER2-positive and Triple-Negative, the main subtypes doctors use to guide treatment.
Some of the most important proteins identified were ULK3, CSK, ASIP and TLR1, which showed a strong link to general breast cancer risk. Others were tied to specific subtypes. For example, ADH5, SARS2 and UBE2N were closely linked with Luminal A breast cancer, while PEX14 was associated with Luminal B.
Here’s where it gets really interesting: In lab experiments and animal models, two of these proteins, CSK and ULK3 were shown to slow down tumor growth when their levels were increased. This suggests that boosting these proteins could actually help protect against breast cancer.
Even better, scientists found that three already-approved medicines might be useful in targeting these proteins:
◦ TG100801- a drug with anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties
◦ Hydrochlorothiazide – a common blood pressure medicine that may help through its interaction with CSK
◦ Imatinib – a cancer drug used in leukemia that could now be helpful in breast cancer when combined with other treatments
The study also opened the door to new immune-based therapies especially for Luminal types of breast cancer, which haven’t had many immunotherapy options in the past.
This discovery was made possible using an advanced testing method called SomaScan, which provides more accurate results than older tools. While more research and clinical trials are needed, experts say these findings could revolutionize how we detect and treat breast cancer, giving doctors more tools to stop it earlier and more effectively.
With breast cancer being one of the most common cancers affecting women around the world, this breakthrough brings real hope for smarter, faster and more personalized care.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
