A key protein level is associated with controlling lung cancer progression

Scientists studying the early mechanisms of lung cancer have discovered a new potential treatment that could also contribute to the early detection
of the disease.

One study showed that levels of a key protein in tumors called TLR2 predicted how long
a patient would survive after being diagnosed with lung cancer.

A drug compound that activated TLR2 was tested in mice and found to reduce tumor growth
early in the disease.
The 5-year survival rate for advanced lung cancer is only 6%, compared to 50%
when diagnosed early.
Experts say the breakthrough could help detect the disease early and improve patient outcomes
.
A team led by researchers at the University of Edinburgh has found that TLR2 helps control some of the body's defence mechanisms
when cells become cancerous.

This protein is associated with aging, the process by which cells stop growing and secrete various chemicals and other proteins that work together to act as warning signs and fight cancer
.
Senescent cells are present in early-stage lung cancer but no longer in advanced cancer, suggesting that aging can stop cancer from developing
.

After determining the importance of TLR2, the team used data from human tumor samples to confirm that patients with higher levels of the protein had higher
survival rates than those with lower levels in the early stages of lung cancer.
The team then used a drug
known to activate TLR2, a mouse model of lung cancer.
The researchers found that the drug inhibited the growth
of lung tumors.
Experts hope the findings can guide research into the use of aging and related secreted chemicals as part of screening programs to provide early lung cancer diagnosis
.
The team adds that further research, such as clinical trials, is needed to confirm whether the drug is effective
in humans.