Common Cold Virus
"Linked to Cancer"

Scientists have identified a connection between the common cold virus and viruses that trigger cancer. Researchers at St. Andrews University in Fife are hoping to use the similarities between the two to find new ways of treating cancer.

The Cancer Research Campaign Scotland estimates that one sixth of all cancers are caused by infection with a virus, including cervical cancer and some kinds of leukaemia, although until now the reason for this has been a mystery.

Professor Ron Hay, who heads the research team, said: "We are using a cold virus to try to crack the problem because although it does not cause cancer itself, it has features in common with viruses that do.

"Our new research should tell us about the mechanisms viruses use to trigger cancer, perhaps helping in the design of life-saving new drugs."

The research will receive $500,000 (US) from the Cancer Research Campaign over the next three years. Professor Gordon McVie, the director general of the Cancer Research Campaign, welcomed the development.

He said: "Prof Hay's research is important because if we can find out how viruses cause cancer, we could develop new ways of preventing or treating the disease.

"It would be particularly satisfying if a common cold virus, which has been a nuisance to us for centuries, could one day help to save lives."

Cancer occurs when cells divide out of control, and when viruses infect cells they sometimes remove the brakes that prevent this happening.

Reference Source 99

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