Researchers at the Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG) have discovered that metabolic enzymes, traditionally recognized for their roles in energy production and nucleotide synthesis, are performing unexpected “second jobs” within the cell nucleus. In this new role, these enzymes are involved in crucial tasks like cell division and DNA repair.

The findings, detailed in two research papers published today (November 12) in Nature Communications, not only challenge established beliefs in cellular biology but also open new paths for cancer treatment, especially against aggressive cancers such as triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC).

This breakthrough, revealed in studies from the Centre for Genomic Regulation, underscores enzymes’ dual functionalities, which could lead to novel cancer treatments, especially for aggressive forms like triple-negative breast cancer.