New discovery allows the prediction of cancer spread.

Cancer spread (metastasis) is responsible for about 90% of cancer deaths so knowing which cancers are likely to spread is very important.  Researchers in China, Canada and the U.S. have discovered that levels of a single protein allowed them to make predictions of cancer spread with 90% accuracy.  The protein is an enzyme called carboxypeptidase E and it normally functions in the modification of hormones like insulin.  The researchers found that an unusual form of the enzyme is found at high levels in tumors that are likely to spread.  The results may allow for the development of tests to predict metastasis and help guide individualized cancer treatment.