A key finding in this new research reveals the role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in promoting cancer cell growth. BDNF, produced by neurons, travels to tumor cells and triggers a chain reaction inside the tumor that ultimately fuels its formation. This remarkable insight demonstrates how cancer exploits the brain’s learning machinery to stimulate its own growth.
Experiments conducted by Dr. Taylor and colleagues revealed that enhancing the cell machinery triggered by BDNF leads to stronger electrical currents in tumor cells, further accelerating their growth. This revelation underscores the importance of understanding the complex interplay between neural signaling and cancer cell behavior.