Beta-endorphin peptide (BEP) hormones have been found to contribute to the management of tumour growth and progression, according to a new report.

Scientists at Rutgers University demonstrated that BEP producing neurons play a significant role in the regulation of stress and immune functions in cancer patients.

Commenting on the findings, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science, lead researcher Dr Dipak K Sarkar said: "Our findings show promise for future therapeutic treatments for bolstering the immune function."

The research team transformed neural stem cells into BEP neurons and transplanted them into the brains of rats. Results showed that the BEP neurons "boosted the immune system by increasing the activity of particular immune cell types and decreasing inflammation".

According to the findings, the transplanted neurons also protected rats from prostate cancer in 90 per cent of cases.

Dr Sarkar concluded: "We are optimistic that this research can be applied to human medicine. Instead of transplanting cells, we will investigate whether we can increase BEP using a chemical approach."

Register now to access our FREE educational library

• Additional testing may improve breast cancer risk assessment 29/07/08
• Heart disease linked to early stage dementia 23/07/08
• Immunologists find possible treatment for stomach flu 22/07/08
• Potential molecule markers found for stomach cancer prognosis 21/07/08
• Ethnicity can influence response to treatment 18/07/08