Scientists have found ways to halt genetics which could slow down or stop diseases like MS and cancer.
Researchers of the University of Edinburgh said their findings might lead to new treatments for such illnesses.
Previously, scientists believed that a select group of “master” genes was responsible for controlling the growth of cells that cause the conditions.
However, the team found hundreds of genes interacting and they will now try to find weak spots to halt tumor growth.
Scientists said that they believe variations in this networked explained the reasons why people might develop diseases in different ways.
The researchers hope that by identifying the weaker spots in the gene structure, they will be able to stop the growth of tumors, enabling the growth of healthy cells.
Professor David Hume of the university’s Roslin Institute led the research and said, “This study has effectively shown us where the brakes are which could slow down or stop diseases like cancer and multiple sclerosis.”
He added, “We believe this could lead to treatments and cures for many diseases of the immune system.”
The researchers findings were published in the Nature Genetics Journal.
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