Daijiworld Media Network – Sydney

Sydney, Aug 22: A common and inexpensive heart medicine could help stop the spread of one of the most aggressive forms of breast cancer, according to groundbreaking research by Australian scientists.

Researchers from Monash University have found that beta blockers – drugs used by millions worldwide to reduce blood pressure and heart rate – may significantly benefit women suffering from triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC).

The Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (MIPS) study revealed that stress hormones trigger a receptor called beta-2 adrenoceptor, which accelerates cancer spread. Scientists discovered that a central gene named HOXC12 regulates this process, and when it is “switched off,” tumour progression can be stopped.

“This study gives us a clearer understanding of why beta blockers could work in triple negative breast cancer,” said Associate Professor Michelle Halls, senior author of the study. “If HOXC12 is present in a patient’s tumour, they could be an ideal candidate for this therapy.”

Lead author Terrence Lam said the discovery could pave the way for more targeted treatments. “HOXC12 may be a new indicator for when patients could respond to beta blocker therapy. This exciting finding could improve survival outcomes for TNBC patients,” he said.

Triple-negative breast cancer accounts for about 15 per cent of all breast cancers, often affecting younger women under 50 and more prevalent in African and African-American women. It is considered difficult to treat compared to other types, with limited therapy options.

Diane Barker, diagnosed at 44, shared her emotional journey, describing the devastating moment she was told she had cancer despite regular screenings. “I was preparing myself, but nothing can prepare you for that news. It’s absolutely devastating,” she said, urging greater support for clinical trials and cancer research.

While previous studies had linked beta blockers to lower mortality in breast cancer patients, this is the first time scientists have identified why they may work – offering hope for thousands of women worldwide battling this aggressive disease.