Prince George, B.C.- Researchers at the University of Northern British Columbia have been collaborating with scientists in Italy and the United States to bring attention to a discovery in molecular biology that may have significant implications for the treatment of cancer.

 

For the past eight years, the researchers - led by UNBC biochemistry and molecular biology professor Chow Lee - have been investigating factors related to the growth and aggression of cancer cells. Theyhave  focused on  a naturally occurring enzyme which could prevent the spread of cancer cells.

 

“The fact that UNBC is participating in major studies that can lead to improvements in cancer treatment around the world is very exciting,” says Dr. Lee. “This research has the potential to be very beneficial for the treatment of cancer and other maladies. If nothing else, it could mean having to rewrite chapters in biochemistry and molecular biology textbooks. Local residents can take pride in the fact that research being conducted in their own backyard is making a difference in the world.”

Over the past eight years, 50 UNBC students and researchers have worked on the project in Dr. Lee's lab.