Stem cells fuel cancer
There's new information on just how powerful cancer cells can be. Three new studies are out that could answer just how cancer can return even after chemotherapy.
Scientists believe cancer returns because the cancer cells themselves contain their own pool of stem cells that can multiply and fuel the cancer.
Stem cells in healthy tissues are known for their ability to produce any kind of cell. The new research deals with a different kind, cancer stem cells. Some researchers, but not all, believe they lurk as a persisting feature in tumors.
Over the last decade, studies have found evidence for them in tumors like breast and colon cancers. But this research has largely depended on transplanting human cancer cells into mice that don't have immune systems, an artificial environment that raises questions about the relevance of the results.
Now, three studies reported online Wednesday in the journals Nature and Science present evidence for cancer stem cells within the original tumors. Again, the research relies on mice. That and other factors mean the new findings still won't convince everyone that cancer stem cells are key to finding more powerful treatments.
Exercise benefits depression
Your daily trip to the gym may be more beneficial than you think. A new study out shows exercise is an effective tool in warding off depression.
Researchers looked at participants who were depressed and had heart disease. Those who combined the medication Zoloft within 90 minutes of exercise, got more relief than those who took a placebo pill.
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Health Headlines: Stem cells fuel cancer