Scientists have unveiled the structure of uMtCK, a key enzyme cancer cells use for energy, offering new insights for targeted therapies to slow tumor growth.
Cancer cells are notorious for their insatiable hunger for energy, rapidly multiplying and hijacking normal cellular functions to meet their fuel demands. One of the critical processes they exploit involves a group of enzymes called creatine kinases (CK), which are responsible for shuttling energy within cells. A specific type of CK, known as ubiquitous mitochondrial creatine kinase (uMtCK), plays a crucial role in helping cancer cells tap into and distribute energy, making it an essential target for potential cancer therapies.
In a breakthrough study, scientists from Sanford Burnham Prebys and Mayo Clinic revealed the detailed structure of human uMtCK, uncovering how its shape changes when bound to energy molecules like creatine or adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Using cutting-edge cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM), the team created 3D images of the protein and its interactions, offering insights that could pave the way for developing drugs to block this crucial energy transport mechanism in cancer cells.
Their research, published in Structure on February 3, 2025, also tested an existing CK inhibitor called CKi on breast cancer cells. The results showed that CKi was effective in slowing down breast cancer cell growth, confirming the potential of targeting this pathway in cancer treatment. However, the inhibitor isn’t selective for uMtCK alone, and could disrupt other vital processes, leading to high toxicity.
Building on these findings, the researchers are now working to design more targeted inhibitors that specifically block uMtCK without affecting other cellular functions, offering the promise of more effective and less toxic cancer therapies in the future.
Scientists have unveiled the structure of uMtCK, a key enzyme cancer cells use for energy, offering new insights for targeted therapies to slow tumor growth.
Pope Francis, recovering from double pneumonia, spent another "tranquil" night in hospital, with his condition remaining stable, the Vatican confirmed on Thursday.
Taiwan’s Maanshan Nuclear Power Plant in Pingtung County released large plumes of black smoke around 11:30 am local time, prompting a swift response from local fire authorities. The cause of the smoke remains unclear, and the situation is under investigation
Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan have agreed to exchange disputed border areas, addressing long-standing conflicts, according to Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov. The agreement, signed on February 21, aims to resolve territorial issues permanently, with both countries’ interests taken into account.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has appointed Alexander Darchiyev as the new ambassador to the U.S., following U.S. approval. Darchiyev, a seasoned diplomat, will manage the complex Russia-U.S. relations.
In a significant development, France has stepped forward to offer intelligence assistance to Ukraine after the United States suspended its intelligence sharing with Kyiv.
Türkiye, with NATO's second-largest army, may contribute to a peacekeeping mission in Ukraine, with discussions ongoing about regional stability. The potential role follows talks with both Ukraine and Russia.
The Trump administration is planning to revoke temporary legal status for 240,000 Ukrainians who fled the conflict with Russia, potentially leading to fast-track deportation. This move is part of a broader shift in U.S. immigration policy, which also impacts migrants from other countries.
Iraq is set to host an Arab summit on May 17, according to Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, who chaired a meeting in Baghdad to review preparations for the upcoming gathering.
Britain recorded 19,125 potential modern slavery victims in 2024, surpassing previous figures. Experts urge policy reforms as stricter immigration laws leave victims afraid to seek help.
A centuries old tradition of cheese-throwing has brought excitement to the town of Novara di Sicilia as its residents both young and old trooped out en masse to participate in the game.
Norway’s government has affirmed that it will continue to supply fuel for U.S. Navy vessels, dismissing recent calls from a private marine fuel supplier to halt deliveries amid tensions linked to U.S.-Ukrainian relations.
EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice-President of the European Commission, Kaja Kallas, will chair the 20th EU-Central Asia Ministerial meeting hosted this year by Turkmenistan, in Ashgabat, on 4 March.
Watch AnewZ Live Coverage of the Trump-Zelenskyy meeting at the Oval Office at https://anewz.tv/tv-live
President Donald Trump is preparing a new travel ban that could block entry for people from Afghanistan and Pakistan as early as next week. The move is part of an intensified immigration crackdown.
Pope Francis remains in stable condition as he recovers from double pneumonia, the Vatican said on Sunday. The 88-year-old pontiff, hospitalized since February 14, no longer requires mechanical ventilation but continues to receive oxygen therapy.
Pope Francis' respiratory condition worsened after a bronchospasm on Friday, prompting non-invasive mechanical ventilation. The Vatican says the Pontiff remains alert and responsive to treatment.
A measles outbreak in West Texas has claimed the life of a child, the first U.S. fatality from the disease in a decade. With more than 120 cases now reported across Texas and New Mexico, health experts are raising concerns about the spread of the disease amid declining vaccination rates.
Geneva, February 24, 2025 – A new analysis by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the World Health Organization’s (WHO) cancer agency, forecasts a significant rise in both breast cancer diagnoses and deaths worldwide by 2050.
A long-term U.S. study suggests that just two servings of yogurt per week may help protect against certain types of colorectal cancer, highlighting the potential health benefits of its living bacteria and the link between diet and gut health.
In a significant development, France has stepped forward to offer intelligence assistance to Ukraine after the United States suspended its intelligence sharing with Kyiv.
Türkiye, with NATO's second-largest army, may contribute to a peacekeeping mission in Ukraine, with discussions ongoing about regional stability. The potential role follows talks with both Ukraine and Russia.
The Trump administration is planning to revoke temporary legal status for 240,000 Ukrainians who fled the conflict with Russia, potentially leading to fast-track deportation. This move is part of a broader shift in U.S. immigration policy, which also impacts migrants from other countries.
Iraq is set to host an Arab summit on May 17, according to Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, who chaired a meeting in Baghdad to review preparations for the upcoming gathering.
Britain recorded 19,125 potential modern slavery victims in 2024, surpassing previous figures. Experts urge policy reforms as stricter immigration laws leave victims afraid to seek help.
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