Tapping the latest technology and other developments in the field of biology and genetics, a stem-cell research revealed a long-lived type of stem cell located in the breast. In the said experiment, researchers have utilized advanced cellular bioinformatics and imaging technology. The stem cells discovered are accounted for the growth of the mammary glands during pregnancy period.
The proponents of the study are Walter and Eliza Hall Institute researchers. They said that the newly-discovered stem cells respond to the 'ovarian hormones' progesterone and oestrogen. However, experts warned that this may also trigger a high-risk form of breast cancer.
Researchers include Dr. Nai Yang Fu, Professor Geoff Lindeman, Dr Anne Rios, and Professor Jane Visvader. According to them, the research program took 20 years before they were able to discover how stem cells develop breasts. They were also able to underline how breast cancers can arise from breast tissue development and stem cells.
According to Science Daily, Dr. Fu said that their group looked at the genes that were “switched on” in stem cells. They were able to distinguish subsets of stem cells that differed in their expression of genes. They encoded two proteins called “Tetraspanin8 and Lgr5," he said. Furthermore, he said that by looking at the levels of these two proteins and their behavior on the surface of the cells, they can divide the stem cells into three separate groups.
Explore Stem Cells also reports the breast stem-cell research benefits women who want to increase their bust size. Since the procedure entails removing stem cells from stomach fat, it can also help reduce the size of women’s midsection.
Prior to the results of the stem-cell research, another recent study claimed that a breast cancer pill called Tamoxifen can reduce risks of breast cancer. However, General Practitioners are still unaware regarding national guidelines before it is recommended to women. Furthermore, they are hoping that the said guidelines will be released soon.
