A study suggests that a gene known to shield the body from harmful chemicals may also protect against bowel cancer.

Removing a single gene from mice predisposed to cancers of the small intestine led to a 50-fold increase in tumors, scientists from the University of Dundee discovered.

The study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science reported that the rise in adenomas–pre-cancerous growths–appeared to be linked to increased inflammation of the bowel.

Previously, the GSTP gene has previously been linked to a reduction in lung tumors.

The GSTP gene appears to provide protection to both the lungs and the skin against cancerous growths, several studies have shown. But it may work in another way in the bowel, this latest research from the University of Dundee suggests.

Specifically it found that there was more inflammation in the small intestines of mice that had the GSTP gene removed.

(article and image source: BBC)