GEN News: Biomarker discovery to help predict breast cancer outcomes
Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology News recently featured research from the University of Cincinnati's Susan Waltz, PhD, and Susanne Wells, PhD.
The duo recently published research on biomarkers that help predict breast cancer outcomes and could be targets for new treatments.
The current research focused on the role of metabolic plasticity, or how metabolism in the body is constantly changing, which plays a significant role in how cancer grows and recurs. The research team found that oncogenes called Ron and DEK can regulate certain metabolites, substances made or used when the body breaks down food, drugs or chemicals in the process of metabolism, to help cancer cells grow and spread.
By studying the enzymes involved, the team identified a metabolic signature that can help better predict outcomes for patients. In addition to being a helpful biomarker, the metabolic signature itself could be a potential target for new therapies.
“Regulating metabolites is much easier than regulating genes,” said Wells, professor in the UC Department of Pediatrics, director of the Epithelial Carcinogenesis and Stem Cell Program at Cincinnati Children’s and a Cancer Center member. “Now we are really opening up a path that is much wider than just targeting Ron and DEK. Hopefully someday we can treat these worst features of cancer by targeting cancer metabolism.”
The research was also featured in Cosmos Australia. Read the Cosmos story.
Featured photo at top of breast cancer cells metastasized to the liver. Photo courtesy of National Cancer Institute.
Related Stories
Pocket-sized population threat
June 10, 2026
The Financial Times took a deep dive into why populations around the world continue to be on the decline. The publication cited new University of Cincinnati research as part of the investigation that looks at the fall of fertility in the digital era.
Cincinnati Children's LEND Program opens doors for UC graduate nursing students
June 9, 2026
UC graduate nursing students are broadening their expertise and career opportunities through the Cincinnati Children's LEND Program.
Patients with developmental disabilities may benefit with an integrated care model
June 9, 2026
Researchers from the University of Cincinnati and Ohio State University have found that adults with developmental disabilities who have integrated care were less likely to go to the emergency room or be hospitalized than others who were not. Their work was published in Disability and Health Journal.