Abortion Pill Compound Prevents Breast Tumor Growth

According to UC Irvine scientists the compound mifepristone prevented breast tumors by inhibiting progesterone in breast tissue cells. It was found the progesterone plays a role in the development of breast cancer by encouraging the proliferation of mammary cells that carry a breast cancer gene. The compound found in the abortion pill can block that response. The study showed that mifepristone affects the function of mutated BRCA-1 genes in tissues. This gene, when mutated, significantly raises the possibility of breast and ovarian cancers. By age 70, more than 50 percent of women with the mutated BRCA-1 gene develop breast or ovarian cancer. Researchers are hopeful that the compound will lead to new options for women with high risk for developing breast cancer. I found this article interesting because there is such a need for a promising treatment to help slow or cease the progression of breast cancer.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2006/11/061130191559.htm