Recent research at the Kimmel Cancer Centre, Jefferson, has found that certain HIV drugs may also help breast cancer from metastasizing.

The drugs target CCR5 receptors that the HIV virus manipulate in order to penetrate host cells.  However, the research has also shown that the drugs can also aid in the treatment of breast cancer, as they target the cells responsible for spreading the disease and stops them from travelling to other tissues.

Current treatment to prevent the progression of cancer cells including radiation and chemotherapy, both of which can lead to other health problems within the body. It is therefore hoped that the new research can help find an alternative treatment, which will prevent the production of new cancer cells at the source, rather than damaging other healthy, properly functioning cells within the body.

Research is ongoing, but it is also thought the HIV drugs may be used in the treatment of gastric and prostate cancers.