Overview

• Genetic analyses highlighted synapse-related programs in small-cell lung cancer, and researchers visualized neuron–tumor synapses in cell culture and mouse allografts.
• Neurons signaled to cancer cells through the neurotransmitters glutamate and GABA, activating pro-growth pathways.
• Small-cell lung cancer proliferated faster when exposed to sensory or cortical neurons in experimental systems.
• Pharmacologically blocking glutamate reduced tumor burden and extended survival in mice, and the approach was compatible with chemotherapy.
• The peer-reviewed study, published Sept. 10 in Nature by an international team backed by German Cancer Aid and the DFG, outlines targets now advancing in preclinical research.