BPoD has moved!

BPoD has recently changed our domain name - we can now be found at bpod.org.uk

Please update your bookmarks!

Now in our 13th year of bringing you beautiful imagery from biomedical science every day

Search the archive of over 4000 images

Preparing for Cancer

Inhibiting molecules in a lab model of pancreatic cancer reveals potential therapeutic strategy

18 September 2022

Preparing for Cancer

Before cancer takes root, pre-cancerous changes lay the groundwork. So, before pancreatic ductal cancer develops, special cells called acinar cells change into immature ductal cells in a process called acinar ductal metaplasia (ADM). Maintaining acinar cells in their usual state is known to prevent tumours from forming. Researchers now investigate whether two small molecules that suppress the activity of enzymes involved in ADM could achieve this. When mouse acinar cells were grown in 3D matrices in the lab, they eventually reverted to an immature state, congregating into bulbous, duct-like structures as revealed through fluorescence microscopy (pictured). Adding either small molecule prevented this. Moreover, adding either small molecule to cells that had already undergone ADM appeared to reverse the process, as suggested by genetic and shape changes. The same effect was seen in human acinar cells grown in 3D matrices, revealing a potential therapeutic strategy for reversing changes that promote cancer.

Written by Lux Fatimathas

Search The Archive

Submit An Image

Follow on Tumblr

Follow on Instagram

What is BPoD?

BPoD stands for Biomedical Picture of the Day. Managed by the MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences until Jul 2023, it is now run independently by a dedicated team of scientists and writers. The website aims to engage everyone, young and old, in the wonders of biology, and its influence on medicine. The ever-growing archive of more than 4000 research images documents over a decade of progress. Explore the collection and see what you discover. Images are kindly provided for inclusion on this website through the generosity of scientists across the globe.

Read More

BPoD is also available in Catalan at www.bpod.cat with translations by the University of Valencia.