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Spanish scientists have identified a molecule that promotes the proper functioning of the main cells of the pancreas and prevents the development of neoplasms in this organ, according to the National Center for Cancer Research. The article dedicated to the discovery was published in the journal Nature Communications.

The pancreas, located behind the stomach, controls the energy supply of our body. It secretes proteins (enzymes) responsible for glucose — the main fuel of the body — which reach other organs when necessary and in the right amount. These proteins are produced in the so-called acinar cells, which make up 85% of the pancreas.

In a new paper, scientists have discovered that a molecule known as NFIC is responsible for the proper functioning of acinar cells. If the NFIC is "turned off", the acinar cells do not mature properly and the pancreas may react poorly to damage. It is also more likely to develop a tumor.

Until now, it has been known that NFIC is involved in the formation of teeth and in changes occurring during lactation in the mammary glands, and also limits the activation of certain genes that can cause certain breast tumors.

[Photo: / ISIDORO COBO. CNIO]

pancreas development of a cancerous tumor acinar cells
Source: www.cnio.es

The information is taken from the portal "Scientific Russia" (https://scientificrussia.ru /)