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Indian-origin researcher uncovers why breast cancer treatments stop working
The researchers found that it unexpectedly activates a group of genes that respond to the hormone estrogen. Some of these genes can help cancer cells withstand treatment and retain the capacity to begin growing again.
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Staff Reporter - Thu, 13, Aug 2026
- 03:48 EDT
- 20
SHOM GOEL / SHOM GOEL VIA X
Researchers led by Indian-origin academic Shom Goel have discovered why breast cancer treatment stops working for some patients, uncovering the unexpected role of one of the body's most important cancer-fighting proteins.
The study — led by Associate Professor Shom Goel alongside Postdoctoral Research Fellows Dr. April Watt and Dr. Antonio Ahn at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre in Melbourne — revealed that the retinoblastoma (Rb) protein — long considered one of the body's natural brakes on cancer growth — has a more complex function than previously understood.
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The research, published in Nature, determined that Rb does more than switch off genes that drive cell division. It can also switch some genes on.
Rb normally works by preventing cells from dividing uncontrollably, helping to protect against cancer. In hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer, the most common subtype of breast cancer, medicines known as CDK4/6 inhibitors switch Rb back on, slowing tumor growth. These drugs have transformed treatment for many patients, but most cancers eventually become resistant.
The researchers found that it unexpectedly activates a group of genes that respond to the hormone estrogen. Some of these genes can help cancer cells withstand treatment and retain the capacity to begin growing again.
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