Scottish Breakthrough Uncovers How Breast Cancer Spreads—and How to Stop

In a major scientific breakthrough, researchers in Scotland have uncovered a key process that enables breast cancer to spread—offering new hope for stopping the disease in its early stages. Scientists from Cancer Research UK and the University of Glasgow discovered that breast cancer manipulates the body’s immune system by altering the metabolism of certain immune cells. These reprogrammed cells then release a protein called uracil, which acts like a biological scaffold, helping cancer cells anchor themselves in other parts of the body.

Remarkably, when researchers targeted an enzyme called uridine phosphorylase-1 (UPP1)—the source of uracil—in mice, they were able to block the protein’s production. This allowed the immune system to recover and destroy the cancer cells before they could spread, effectively halting metastasis.

The discovery could transform future cancer care, with scientists now exploring the possibility of using uracil detection in the bloodstream as an early warning system for metastasis. Drugs that block UPP1 may also emerge as powerful tools to prevent cancer from spreading. “This is a major shift in how we think about stopping cancer in its tracks,” said Dr. Cassie Clarke, the study’s lead researcher.

Dr. Catherine Elliot of Cancer Research UK echoed the significance of the findings. “Metastasis is what makes breast cancer so deadly. This gives us real hope of stopping it earlier and giving patients more precious time,” she said.

Globally, breast cancer continues to be a leading cause of death. In Nigeria, nearly 30,000 women are diagnosed each year, with over 16,000 deaths. The UK records around 56,000 new cases annually, while the US sees about 266,000 cases and 40,000 deaths. Experts warn that global cases could reach 3.2 million a year.

Simon Vincent, Chief Scientific Officer at Breast Cancer Now, noted the wider implications of the study: “This could potentially help stop the spread of other cancers too. Now, the focus is on turning this discovery into lifesaving treatments.”

Health experts continue to stress the importance of early detection. Common warning signs include lumps in the breast or armpit, changes in breast shape or size, nipple discharge, and skin changes such as dimpling or redness. Despite ongoing awareness efforts, many women still neglect regular self-examinations.

This breakthrough signals a new frontier in cancer treatment—where stopping cancer before it spreads may soon be within reach.