Scientists discovered a new method to make cancer cells die by studying how genes control a process called disulfidptosis. Using data from over 272,000 patient samples, researchers created a test to identify which genes control this cell-death process in different cancers, especially liver cancer. They found that certain genes can either help or prevent this cancer-fighting process, and that a special diet and certain drugs might make cancer cells more vulnerable to treatment. This discovery could lead to better ways to treat liver cancer and other cancers in the future.

The Quick Take

  • What they studied: How genes control a new type of cell death that could be used to fight cancer, with a focus on liver cancer
  • Who participated: The study analyzed genetic information from 272,445 patient samples across 1,454 different studies, covering 33 types of cancer
  • Key finding: Researchers identified specific genes (NRF1 and NRF2) that control whether cancer cells die or survive, and found that a ketogenic diet and certain drugs can make cancer cells more likely to die
  • What it means for you: This research suggests new treatment strategies for liver cancer patients may be developed, though these findings are still in early stages and need more testing before becoming standard treatments

The Research Details

Scientists created a computer model using genetic information from hundreds of thousands of patient samples to identify genes that control a specific type of cell death called disulfidptosis. They tested this model across 33 different cancer types to see which genes were most important. For liver cancer specifically, they used laboratory experiments to confirm which genes helped or prevented this cell-death process. They also tested whether a ketogenic diet (a high-fat, low-carb diet) and various drugs could trigger this cell death in cancer cells grown in the lab.

This research approach is important because it combines large-scale patient data with laboratory experiments to identify new targets for cancer treatment. By understanding which genes control cell death in cancer, doctors might be able to develop more precise treatments that work better for individual patients. The combination of diet and drug testing also suggests multiple ways to fight cancer.

The study used very large datasets (over 272,000 samples) which makes the findings more reliable. The researchers confirmed their computer predictions with actual laboratory experiments, which strengthens the results. However, the study was conducted in laboratory settings and computer models, not in living patients, so results may differ in real-world treatment.

What the Results Show

The researchers successfully created a test that can predict how likely cancer cells are to undergo disulfidptosis (a specific type of cell death). This test worked across all 33 cancer types studied, but showed different patterns in different tissues. In liver cancer specifically, two genes called NRF1 and NRF2 emerged as the most important controllers—NRF1 prevented cell death while NRF2 promoted it. When scientists removed the NRF1 gene in laboratory cancer cells, the cells became more likely to die. When they removed NRF2, the cells became more resistant to death. These findings suggest that targeting these genes could make cancer treatments more effective.

The study also found that a ketogenic diet (high in fat, low in carbohydrates) made cancer cells more sensitive to disulfidptosis when glucose was limited. Additionally, researchers identified three drugs that might influence this cell-death process: NR-CL appeared to prevent disulfidptosis, while lomerizine and clioquinol appeared to promote it. These compounds were validated through laboratory testing, suggesting they could potentially be combined with other cancer treatments.

Disulfidptosis is a relatively new discovery in cancer research, so this study represents one of the first comprehensive attempts to map out which genes control this process. The findings build on recent discoveries that this type of cell death exists and can be triggered, moving the field toward practical applications. The combination of diet and drug interventions is novel and suggests multiple pathways to enhance cancer treatment.

This research was conducted primarily in laboratory settings using computer models and cultured cancer cells, not in living patients. The study did not test whether these findings work in actual human bodies or whether the identified drugs are safe for patients. The ketogenic diet results were only tested in laboratory conditions with limited glucose, which may not perfectly reflect how the diet would work in real patients. More research is needed to determine if these findings can be safely applied to cancer treatment.

The Bottom Line

Based on this research, there is moderate evidence that targeting the genes NRF1 and NRF2 might improve cancer treatment effectiveness. The findings suggest potential benefits from a ketogenic diet combined with cancer therapy, though this needs human testing. The identified drugs show promise but require further safety and effectiveness testing before any clinical use. Patients should not change their diet or seek these drugs outside of clinical trials without consulting their doctor.

Liver cancer patients and their doctors should be aware of these findings as they may lead to new treatment options in the future. People with a family history of liver cancer might find this research relevant for prevention strategies. Researchers and pharmaceutical companies developing new cancer treatments should pay attention to these gene targets. People without cancer should not attempt to use these findings for prevention without medical guidance.

These are early-stage laboratory findings. It typically takes 5-10 years for promising laboratory discoveries to become available treatments for patients. Clinical trials would need to be conducted first to ensure safety and effectiveness in humans. Patients should not expect these treatments to be available immediately.

Want to Apply This Research?

  • Users could track dietary macronutrient ratios (fat, protein, carbohydrates) if exploring ketogenic diet approaches under medical supervision, recording daily percentages and any health changes
  • For users interested in cancer prevention or supporting cancer treatment, the app could help track and maintain a ketogenic diet pattern (if recommended by their doctor), with meal logging and macro tracking features
  • Long-term tracking should include diet adherence, energy levels, weight changes, and regular check-ins with healthcare providers about any cancer treatment progress or side effects

This research describes laboratory findings that have not yet been tested in human patients. The findings are promising but preliminary. Anyone with liver cancer or at risk for cancer should consult with their oncologist before making any dietary changes or seeking experimental treatments. Do not attempt to use ketogenic diets or any mentioned compounds as cancer treatment without explicit medical supervision. This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.