Discovery: the anti-cancer secret of aspirin 💊

Could a simple aspirin pill slow down the progression of cancer? A recent study reveals how this common medication boosts the immune system and prevents cancer cells from spreading.


Researchers at the University of Cambridge have discovered a novel mechanism explaining the anti-metastatic effect of aspirin. This breakthrough paves the way for more accessible and targeted treatments.

The mechanism behind aspirin's anti-cancer effect

Aspirin works by inhibiting the production of thromboxane A2 (TXA2), a molecule produced by blood platelets. TXA2, known for its role in blood clotting, also reduces the effectiveness of T cells, which are essential for fighting cancer cells. By lowering TXA2 levels, aspirin allows T cells to become more active and target cancer cells before they spread.

Researchers have identified a gene, ARHGEF1, that plays a central role in this process. This gene produces a protein that, when activated by TXA2, renders T cells ineffective. By blocking TXA2, aspirin prevents this loss of effectiveness, enabling immune cells to fight cancer cells. This discovery was made serendipitously while scientists were studying metastases in mice.

Experiments on mice with melanoma confirmed this mechanism. Mice treated with aspirin had fewer metastases in the lungs and liver compared to the control group. These results suggest that aspirin could be particularly effective in preventing cancer spread at an early stage, when cancer cells are most vulnerable.

Promising results, but precautions are necessary

Trials on mice with melanoma showed that aspirin significantly reduced the spread of cancer to the lungs and liver. This reduction in metastases is directly linked to the reactivation of T cells, which regain their ability to attack cancer cells. These results confirm the potential of aspirin as a preventive tool against cancer dissemination.

However, researchers emphasize that aspirin is not without risks. In some patients, it can cause serious side effects, such as internal bleeding or gastric ulcers. These complications limit its widespread use and require a personalized approach to identify patients who could benefit safely.

Clinical trials are underway to evaluate the efficacy and safety of aspirin in preventing metastases. These studies also aim to determine the optimal doses and the types of cancer most sensitive to this treatment. Meanwhile, this discovery could inspire the development of new drugs specifically targeting the TXA2-ARHGEF1 pathway, offering a less expensive and more accessible alternative to current immunotherapies.

To go further: How do T cells fight cancer?

T cells, also known as T lymphocytes, are white blood cells specialized in defending the body against abnormal cells, such as cancer cells. They play a key role in the immune response by identifying and destroying tumor cells through specific receptors on their surface.

When a T cell recognizes a cancer cell, it activates and multiplies to form an army of killer cells. These cells then release toxic substances that destroy the cancer cell or trigger its self-destruction. This mechanism is essential to prevent the formation of metastases, especially when cancer cells detach from the primary tumor.