The protective protein FXR slows the progression of aggressive oesophageal cancer

Gastro-oesophageal adenocarcinoma is an aggressive form of oesophageal cancer that is on the rise, particularly in Western countries. Risk factors include chronic reflux, obesity and a high-fat diet. Researchers led by Prof. Michael Quante (University Medical Centre Freiburg) have discovered that the FXR protein plays a key protective role: It can mitigate the damaging effects of bile acids on the oesophageal tissue. When FXR is specifically activated, the progression of the cancer is slowed down. The findings open up new avenues for the early detection and treatment of this type of cancer. The Wilhelm Sander Foundation supported the project with just under €260,000.