Conicet researchers advance methods for the early detection of breast cancer

Each October 19the world commemorates the International Day of Fight against Breast Canceran initiative promoted by the World Health Organization. This day seeks to raise awareness about the importance of having periodic checks and access timely treatments to reduce the impact of this disease, which continues to be the most common type of cancer in women.

In Argentina, Conicet scientists work intensively on microRNA researchsmall molecules with enormous potential for the development of new therapies and diagnostic methods that could change the approach to breast cancer treatment.

These researchers, led by Paola De Lucaare focused on discovering how microRNAs could improve the quality of life of people who suffer from this disease.

Breast cancer originates in breast tissue cells and can be detected early through mammograms, which is essential to initiate effective treatment. The Argentine League to Fight Cancer (LALCEC) insists on the importance of regular self-examination and periodic visits to the doctor, since early detection is key to saving lives.

This type of cancer occurs when the cells of the mammary gland suffer genetic alterations and begin to behave in a malignant manner.

New scientific advances

Paola De Luca detailed the advances being made in the Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and New Therapeutic Targets of Conicet. The researcher highlighted that, although diagnoses and treatments have improved significantly in recent years, there is still much to do. Current efforts focus on developing early diagnosis methods, when therapies are usually most effective, and on designing selective, low-toxicity treatments.

MicroRNAs, explains De Luca, are small DNA molecules They can regulate the expression of hundreds of genes and play a fundamental role in cellular function. When their expression is altered, they can cause diseases such as breast cancer.

“We know that microRNAs are not only expressed in cells, but also circulate in fluids such as blood, which could facilitate early cancer detection”, he noted in dialogue with C5N.

In his laboratory, De Luca and his team have identified two microRNAs linked to triple-negative breast cancer, an aggressive variant of the disease with few therapeutic options. “We have managed to reduce tumor growth in laboratory models using therapies based on these microRNAs, with promising results,” he highlighted.

A comprehensive approach in the fight against breast cancer

As science advances, they also propose new laws to guarantee better treatments to the patients. The Buenos Aires senator Maximiliano Abad presented a bill that seeks to modify the Breast Pathology Law, ensuring full coverage of symmetrization surgeries of the contralateral breast and complete reconstruction of the areola-nipple complex for those who have undergone a mastectomy.

This project aims to both social and prepaid works cover all stages of breast reconstructionpreventing affected people from having to resort to justice to access these rights. Breast reconstruction, including restoration of the nipple-areola complex using advanced techniques, is not only an aesthetic issue, but also deeply impacts the physical and psychological health of patients.

“The proposal guarantees comprehensive treatment for women who suffer from this disease, allowing them to resume their lives with the highest quality possible,” said Abad.

In Argentina, More than 22,000 cases of breast cancer are diagnosed each yearbeing the main cause of death from tumors in women, which underlines the urgency of a multidimensional approach to confront this disease.

This project already has favorable jurisprudence and seeks eliminate judicial obstaclesensuring that the health system fulfills its duty to guarantee these vital procedures.