Can a set of blood proteins predict colon, breast, and other cancers?

Introduction

Recent studies conducted by Oxford Population Health at the University of Oxford have explored the associations between thousands of blood plasma proteins and various forms of cancer. These studies aim to contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, by enhancing early detection and treatment of cancers.

Study Overview

First Study

The first study, published in Nature Communications on May 15, identified 371 plasma protein markers associated with cancer risk. Notably, 107 of these markers were linked to cancers diagnosed seven years after blood samples were taken, suggesting a potential for early detection and intervention.

Second Study

The second study, also published in Nature Communications on April 29, found associations between 40 plasma proteins and various common cancers. This research underscores the importance of early detection in improving cancer treatment outcomes.

Research Methodology

The studies utilized data from the U.K. Biobank, analyzing statistical links between plasma proteins and cancer types in a large cohort of adults. The researchers employed proteomics, a discipline that studies proteins in the body, to understand these associations better.

Key Findings

• Potential links between plasma proteins and increased risks of liver, digestive, gastrointestinal tract cancers, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, colorectal, lung, kidney, brain, stomach, esophagus, endometrium, and blood cancers.
• Associations with triple-negative breast cancer, bladder cancer, lung cancer, and pancreatic cancer.

Implications for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

The findings from these studies align with several SDGs:

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • Early detection and treatment of cancers can significantly improve health outcomes and reduce mortality rates.
2. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
   • Advancements in proteomics and bioinformatics contribute to innovative healthcare solutions.
3. SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
   • Collaborative research efforts enhance global health initiatives and knowledge sharing.

Expert Opinions

Dr. Joshua Atkins, a senior genomic epidemiologist at the University of Oxford, emphasized the potential for detecting cancers at an earlier stage when treatment can be more successful. He noted that while some proteins are not causal for cancer development, they can still provide valuable insights for early detection.

“Proteins that are not causal for cancer development but are a consequence of cancer growth can provide avenues for detecting cancers at an earlier stage when treatment can be more successful.” – Dr. Joshua Atkins

Dr. Richard Reitherman, medical director of Breast Imaging at MemorialCare Breast Center, highlighted the complexity of the blood system and its role in connecting all body organs and functions. He stressed that manipulating protein levels requires careful consideration due to potential adverse effects.

“Our blood system is the obligatory middleman, a complex subway system that connects all of the body’s organs and functions with each other.” – Dr. Richard Reitherman

Future Directions

The research team is working to determine the levels of proteins that should be of concern. This process may take time and will involve extensive testing to establish healthy ranges for different proteins.

“Most current drugs target proteins in some form or shape, and we already have good hazard profiles on approved drugs. For novel proteins that we may want to target, this new research using genetic methods enables us to predict what hazards or side effects might occur, and to prioritize targets to move forward with.” – Dr. Joshua Atkins

Conclusion

The studies represent a significant step toward understanding the relationship between plasma proteins and cancer. By contributing to SDGs such as Good Health and Well-being, Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, and Partnerships for the Goals, this research holds promise for improving global health outcomes through early cancer detection and treatment.

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Analysis of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the Article

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• Target 3.4: By 2030, reduce by one third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being.
• Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

• Indicator 3.4.1: Mortality rate attributed to cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes or chronic respiratory disease.
• Indicator 3.9.1: Mortality rate attributed to household and ambient air pollution.

The article discusses the identification of plasma protein markers that could potentially serve as early warning signs for various cancers, which aligns with SDG 3’s focus on reducing premature mortality from non-communicable diseases (Target 3.4). The research aims to enhance early detection and treatment of cancers, which could significantly reduce cancer-related mortality rates (Indicator 3.4.1). Additionally, understanding the role of proteins in cancer development could help in reducing illnesses caused by hazardous biological factors (Target 3.9 and Indicator 3.9.1).

4. Findings Table

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Fuente: medicalnewstoday.com

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