Scientists at the University of York have announced that they have made a significant breakthrough in cancer related research this week. The news has resonated with students and staff alike.Professor Norman Maitland and his team are on their way to discovering exactly how prostate cells spread and survive treatment.
Maitland is thrilled with the development, stating: “I am proud of what we have achieved at York.”
“I don’t like to say we are curing cancer – it’s not that simple, but we have greatly improved our understanding of the disease and that means we are potentially one step closer to developing effective longer – lasting treatments.”
He went on to explain the findings: “The cells become selfish by surviving outside normal controls that exist in the prostate and thrive at the expense of their neighbors, ensuring that the genetic accident becomes permanent and passed from generation to generation. This process appears to be essential for the initiation of prostate cancer.”
He added: “This discovery marks a fundamental shift in our understanding of how solid cancers start. It is believed that ‘root’ cancer cells arise from healthy stem cells going wrong – for example certain controls can be turned off which allow the cells to keep growing and invade surrounding tissue.”
Charles Rowett, CEO of Yorkshire Cancer Research, the charity which funds much of the work at York, said: “Scientific breakthroughs don’t happen every day – they are the result of years of hard work and the unwavering commitment and dedication of research groups across the world. We continue to be impressed by Professor Maitland and his team.”
Kallum Taylor, YUSU president, told Vision how these findings put the University in excellent stead, and are a true asset: “This is obviously an amazing development, and is something close to my heart. All those involved in the research are to commended for their work, and for giving further incentive to continuing to beat cancer. This, and other contributions to society, are the types of successes which aren’t given enough air time and exposure. The University of York’s people are doing some great, life-changing things.”
Rosie Brear, a third year Philosophy student, stated: “I feel really proud to be part of a university that is devoting its time and resources to such a great thing, and it is excellent to see it paying off.”