What is essential for normal development can become harmful when activated in the wrong context. SYCP1 is a striking example. Normally, SYCP1 plays an important role in the formation of reproductive cells, but researchers have discovered that cancer cells can repurpose this developmental protein to support their growth and survival.

In a recent study co-led by N2CR primary member A/Prof Tee Wee Wei, researchers found that SYCP1 is abnormally reactivated in several cancer types, including breast cancer. In cancer cells, SYCP1 helps control genes involved in DNA repair and cell division, processes that are critical for tumour growth. Removing SYCP1 impaired cancer cell growth and migration, and made the cells more sensitive to certain chemotherapy drugs.

These findings reveal how cancer can exploit proteins normally restricted to reproductive development, highlighting SYCP1 as a potential therapeutic vulnerability in cancer.

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