Discovery of Cell Water Gate May Lead to New Cancer Drugs

The flow of water into and out from the cell may play a crucial role in several types of cancer. Scientists at the University of Gothenburg, Sweden, have now found the gate that regulates the flow of water into yeast cells. The discovery raises hopes of developing a drug that inhibits the spread and growth of tumours.

All living organisms must be able to regulate the flow of water into and out from cells, in order to maintain cell form and size. This regulation is carried out by proteins known as "aquaporins". These act as water channels and control the flow of water into and out from the cell.

Research on mice has shown that inhibiting the function of aquaporins can reduce the spread and growth of tumours.