EGF helps prevent inflammation-induced cancer

In order to determine the relationship between EGF and tumor development, the investigators blocked EGF and expected to also block colon tumor development. Surprisingly, they discovered that inactivating EGF resulted in increasingly severe colitis and dramatically increased colon tumor growth.

In a paper published online in the Journal of Clinical Investigation (July 9, 2012) they reported that EGF encourages healing and provides powerful anti-inflammatory properties; together, these functions actually prevent inflammation-induced cancer, superseding any potential tumor-promoting role.

"There is a great need for these new therapies, as current medicines and surgical options for IBD patients cause many debilitating side effects," said Dubé, who is first author on the paper. "By building on the body's natural healing system, we believe that we can develop therapies for IBD that are not only highly effective but, most importantly, safe."

Source: Children's Hospital Los Angeles