Christiana Care scientists make colon cancer discovery

A recent study led by Bruce Boman of Christiana Care Health System, found that colon cancer stem cell activity may be inhibited by retinoic acid signaling. Retinoic acid, a vitamin A–derived molecule often found in topical anti-aging products (Retin-A), is used in cancer treatment due to its affect on cell development.

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. It can be difficult to treat due to drug resistance; this discovery may help oncologists target these cancers with more success.

“Our findings point to a number of possibilities for developing more effective stem cell targeting therapies for advanced colorectal cancer,” Dr. Boman said.

The paper, published in the Oct. 5 issue of Oncotarget, is co-authored by former University of Delaware student researcher Shirin Modarai (who currently works for Christiana Care), among others.