Scientists have discovered that aspirin might help prevent the spread of certain cancers by enhancing the body’s natural defenses.
Experts have studied for years how common medicines could slow down cancer. Observations have shown that taking a small dose of aspirin daily might reduce the spread of some cancers, such as breast and prostate cancer. This has caught the attention of medical researchers.
Scientists at the University of Cambridge believe they have found an important clue regarding how aspirin slows this process.
Fights cancer by strengthening immune response
Doctors find cancer easier to treat when it stays in one place. But when cancer cells enter the bloodstream, they can spread to new areas, making the disease much harder to control.
Scientists believe the body’s defense system, also known as the immune system, may have a better chance of attacking single cancer cells than larger tumors. Researchers at the University of Cambridge explored what factors weaken or strengthen this defense.
Their study focused on a substance called thromboxane A2 (TXA2), produced by blood cells known as platelets. They found that TXA2 triggers a reaction in the immune system, rendering T cells—key disease fighters—less effective. A specific protein, ARHGEF1, is involved in this process, limiting T cells’ ability to attack cancer.
Aspirin blocks the production of TXA2. When TXA2 levels drop, T cells seem to regain strength. This could help them find and destroy tiny cancer cells before they grow into bigger threats.
Aspirin may help stop cancer from spreading
“It was a Eureka moment when we found TXA2 was the molecular signal that activates this suppressive effect on T cells,” said Dr. Jie Yang, a researcher in the Department of Pathology.
Their research showed that a protein called ARHGEF1 weakens T cells, preventing them from attacking cancer effectively. When scientists blocked this protein, T cells stayed strong and fought cancer better. In lab tests on mice, fewer cancer cells spread when this process was disrupted.
Simply put, aspirin stops the production of TXA2. Without TXA2, T cells stay active and fight cancer instead of being weakened.
Researchers believe this could be a game-changer. This extra immune boost might prevent cancer from returning after treatment in some patients.
Aspirin shows promise, but experts urge caution
Scientists warn that aspirin is not risk-free. In some individuals, it can cause serious side effects such as internal bleeding or stomach ulcers. Doctors advise consulting with a medical professional before taking aspirin regularly.
Despite the risks, researchers see potential benefits. Low-dose aspirin is far cheaper than many modern cancer drugs, which could make it more accessible worldwide if clinical trials confirm its effectiveness.
One major study, called the Add-Aspirin trial, is already testing whether aspirin can help prevent certain early-stage cancers from recurring. Scientists hope their new findings will help personalize treatment, ensuring aspirin is only given to those who will truly benefit.
Researchers are exploring ways to target the TXA2 and ARHGEF1 pathways beyond aspirin. Future treatments could block these signals without the risks associated with aspirin, maintaining the immune system’s strength while reducing unwanted side effects.