Two recent studies at the University of Chicago suggest that morphine and other opiate-based painkillers may be associated with the growth and spread of cancer cells.
Both papers, scheduled to be presented Wednesday at an international cancer conference in Boston, also reveal how preventing opiates from reaching lung cancer cells reduces cancer cell proliferation, invasion and migration.
Morphine can increase tumor cell proliferation, inhibit the immune system, promote the growth of new blood vessels (angiogenesis) that feed tumors and decrease barrier function. In cancer patients undergoing surgery, decreased barrier function may make it easier for tumors to invade tissue and spread to other parts of the body, while increased angiogenesis helps tumors thrive in a new location.
Acording to researchers, the findings may offer a potential treatment target and a potential new applications for this novel class of drugs which should be explored.
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