Mina Bissell of the Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory in California, USA, has long pointed out that micro-environment plays an important role in the development of cancer. Cancer cells, just like any other cells in the body, exist in their own 'micro-environment' consisting of the rest of the tissue. Now, by creating what she calls 'designer micro-environments' in which she changes the environment of breast cancer cells and the three-dimensional structure of the tissue in which they are embedded, Bissell shows that breast cancer can be made to stop spreading. This is an important insight into what causes cancer, and carries implications for treatment.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
.png)
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.