Genetic mutation opens up new targets for treating neuroblastoma

Neuroblastoma, an aggressive form of childhood cancer, is often difficult to treat – particularly when it is associated with unfavourable genetic alterations. Led by Dr Jan Dörr, a research team has now investigated how the DDX1 gene influences the properties of tumour cells. The researchers were able to show that, in many aggressive neuroblastomas, DDX1 is amplified alongside the oncogene MYCN, alters cellular metabolism and creates a dependency on the mTOR signalling pathway. Furthermore, the gene influences how cancer cells respond to chemotherapy. The Wilhelm Sander Foundation funded the project with around 198,000 euros. The findings point to a potential new target for future therapies.