An indisputable link between red meat and cancer has been identified

A team of researchers from the National Cancer Center Singapore (NCCS) and the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) have identified the biological process linking overconsumption of red meat to colon cancer. Iron in red meat reactivates the telomerase enzyme via a protein called Pirin, thus promoting the progression of cancer.

This discovery is all the more important since colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the world, representing approximately 10% of cancer cases. It is also the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. In addition to age and family history, several lifestyle factors increase the risk of developing this disease:

• An unbalanced diet
• Lack of physical activity
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Excessive alcohol consumption

Crucial role of telomeres and telomerase in cancer

To understand the importance of this discovery, we must look at the role of telomeres and telomerase in the development of cancer. Telomeres are small structures at the ends of chromosomes, made up of DNA and protein sequences. They are essential for cell division.

With each cell division, telomeres shorten until they reach a critical length that prevents further division. This process is the cause of tissue aging. On the other hand, the enzyme telomerase has the ability to rebuild telomeresthus allowing cells to continue to divide.

In the case of cancer cells, telomerase is reactivated, allowing them to divide indefinitely and form tumors. The researchers discovered that iron in red meat reactivates telomerase in colorectal cancer cellsthus promoting the progression of the disease.

A promising new therapeutic approach

Beyond identifying the mechanism linking excessive consumption of red meat to colorectal cancer, researchers have also discovered a promising therapeutic avenue. A small molecule named SP2509 was found to block telomerase reactivation in cancer cells by targeting the Pirin protein and preventing iron from binding to it.

Laboratory tests on cancer cell lines showed that SP2509:

1. Inhibits telomerase reactivation
2. Reduces tumor growth

This discovery opens the way to new treatment strategies for colorectal cancer, particularly for patients with high iron levels.

Implications for public health and future research

This major scientific advance highlights the importance of a balanced diet. Although meat is an important source of proteins, fats and essential vitamins, its excessive consumption can have adverse health consequences.

Professor Vinay Tergaonkar, lead author of the study, highlights the importance of this discovery: “Understanding the role of iron in the activation of telomerase opens new perspectives for treating colorectal cancer. Our future research will focus on refining therapeutic strategies targeting this mechanism, in hopes of developing more effective treatments for patients, particularly those with elevated iron levels. »

This study, published in the journal Cancer Discovery, marks a turning point in understanding the link between diet and cancer. It opens the way to new research and more targeted prevention strategies, while offering new therapeutic perspectives for patients with colorectal cancer.