Cancer Formation

NFCR-supported researcher Dr. Xiang-Lei Yang of Scripps Research has published a new paper titled "Seryl-tRNA synthetase inhibits Wnt signaling and breast cancer progression and metastasis." This study discusses the role of seryl-tRNA synthetase (SerRS) in regulating Wnt signaling, a pathway known to be involved in cancer progression, particularly breast cancer. The study highlights that SerRS, traditionally known for its role in protein synthesis, can also function as a tumor suppressor by inhibiting the Wnt signaling pathway. Specifically, SerRS suppresses Wnt signaling in breast cancer by reducing β-catenin levels, impacting cell migration, adhesion, and metastasis. The findings from this groundbreaking research suggest that SerRS has strong potential as a novel therapeutic target for breast cancer. Notably, the study demonstrated that SerRS can significantly inhibit metastasis, even independently of its effects on primary tumor growth, making it an especially promising candidate for anti-metastatic therapies. Given the crucial role of Wnt signaling in both normal and cancerous cells, ongoing research will further explore how harnessing SerRS’s tumor-suppressive functions can be translated into safe and effective clinical treatments. With strong evidence from breast cancer cell lines and mouse models, these findings pave the way for the next steps in developing SerRS-based therapies to combat breast cancer progression and metastasis. For donors or stakeholders, this research underscores the importance of further exploring SerRS's role in cancer biology. Targeting the Wnt pathway with SerRS could lead to innovative strategies for cancer treatment, particularly in preventing metastasis and progression in breast cancer patients. Cancer Research Works! But only with our help. Please make a gift today to help advance breakthroughs in cancer research with NFCR. About Dr. Xiang-Lei Yang Dr. Xiang-Lei Yang is a prominent researcher at Scripps Research, known for her work in cancer biology and molecular mechanisms. Dr. Yang’s laboratory has made significant contributions to understanding the molecular underpinnings of diseases like breast cancer, with particular attention to the regulatory networks that govern cellular behaviors and cancer cell survival. Dr. Yang’s team is exploring this critical area of research in triple-negative breast cancer using laboratory models and patient breast cancer samples, both from primary and metastatic cancer sites. Their significant research may lead to novel therapeutic applications for additional cancers. Sign-up to Stay Informed About Cancer Research Breakthroughs with NFCR!

In the latest episode of All Things Cancer, Dr. Azra Raza, renowned oncologist and author of The First Cell, sits down with NFCR’s Dr. Sujuan Ba to discuss a bold new approach—shifting the focus from killing the last cancer cell to detecting the very first. Dr. Raza shares her groundbreaking research, the urgent need for a paradigm shift in cancer treatment, and how we can move toward real change. “For decades, we’ve been chasing the last cancer cell with toxic treatments—chemotherapy, radiation, surgery—while ignoring the first cell that starts the disease,” says Dr. Raza. “We must shift our focus to detecting cancer at its inception, before it becomes a death sentence.” The episode also delves into Dr. Raza’s personal experiences as a physician and cancer widow, highlighting the emotional and human side of the disease. Her urgent call to action aims to inspire researchers, policymakers, and the public to rethink how we tackle cancer moving forward. Don’t miss out—listen now on Spotify or Apple Podcasts and be part of the movement transforming cancer research. About All Things Cancer Each episode of All Things Cancer will spotlight the most pressing topics in oncology, from cutting-edge treatments and emerging research to personal stories of resilience and hope. More than just a podcast, it’s a platform for raising awareness, advancing cancer education, and fostering a global community of support and collaboration. Hosted by NFCR CEO, Sujuan Ba, Ph.D., this compelling series will bring together the entire ecosystem of cancer research—including leading scientists, oncologists, doctors, patient advocates, caregivers, biotech innovators, and survivors—for powerful discussions on the breakthroughs shaping the future of cancer research, treatment, and care. All Things Cancer is now available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, with new episodes released biweekly. Subscribe now to stay up to date on the latest episodes and join the conversation that’s shaping the future of cancer research. Cancer impacts everyone—whether you're a patient, caregiver, advocate, or researcher, this podcast delivers invaluable insights from those on the frontlines of the fight against it. Sign-up to Stay Informed About Cancer Research Breakthroughs with NFCR!