Senectus Therapeutics has signed a deal to screen a selection of AstraZeneca’s chemical compound library to identify those which trigger a key element of cancer cell ageing – called senescence. Senescent cells are those which after many rounds of cell growth and division enter a ‘sleep’ phase where the normal cell cycle is stopped. This blocks the uncontrolled growth and division of cells. It is a natural mechanism to prevent cancer. But cancer cells find ways to trick their way past this block and continue to grow and divide. Understanding the triggers to cell ageing may reveal molecular targets for completely new ways to treat cancer.
23 March, 2011
With looming patient cliffs, drying pipelines and the need for open collaboration, now more than ever the pharma sector needs a co-ordinated approach to get back on track, says a leading industry player.
18 March, 2011
It’s not known what causes the disease or how to cure it. And the stakes have never been higher. But one European neuroscientist is leading the charge to uncover new treatments for this neurodegenerative disease.
07 March, 2011