New Study Challenges Long-Held Assumptions About Cancer and Aging

Fox Chase Cancer Center researchers found melanoma spread was lowest in young mice, highest in middle-aged mice, and lower again in very old mice.

Gamma delta T cells and tumor immune-suppressing signals may help explain why melanoma behaves differently with age.

The study suggests cancer research that relies mainly on young mice may miss important age-related biology.

Using older animal models more often could improve understanding of cancer in older adults and guide more age-specific treatments.