Clues found to cancer and Aids connection

Researchers have discovered more clues about the development of cancers in people with Aids.

In the journal Public Library of Science Pathogens, experts from the University of North Carolina (UNC) at Chapel Hill Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Centre, found that microRNAs have an effect on cancer development.

These small molecules, which regulate gene expression, can stop uncontrolled cell growth. Certain types of microRNAs can be lost as tumors progress, which then accelerates the growth of cancer.

Dirk Dittmer, associate professor of microbiology and immunology at UNC's School of Medicine, stated: "We chose these two cancers because, while they are both associated with the same virus, they occur in very different types of cells.

"MicroRNAs are an exciting new class of cancer markers. Knowing which ones are present in a particular tumor will help us understand the biology and develop those microRNAs as novel cancer therapy targets."

The Leukemia and Lymphoma Foundation, the National Institutes of Health, the University Cancer Research Fund and the AIDS Malignancies Clinical Trials Consortium were also involved in the study.

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