Big Breakthrough In Fight Against Breast Cancer

There's been a big breakthrough in the fight against breast cancer. Researchers say they've identified a protein linked to tumor growth.

Researchers in North Texas say destroying this particular protein causes tumors to shrink. Three years ago, a team of scientists identified the protein called NAF-1, and realized it was linked to tumor growth. Since the discovery, researchers have learned a drug already on the market to treat Type 2 Diabetes has been shown to destroy the protein.

Scientists hope their new findings can treat the most aggressive and deadliest form of breast cancer called Triple Negative.

"There's no really good way to treat it right now. So hopefully we're increasing the chances," said Dr. Ron Mittler, University of North Texas.

Researchers caution every cancer is unique and therefore successful treatment will vary from patient to patient. We're told clinical trials are expected to start in November.