Scientists at the University of Southampton have discovered a novel subtype of lymphoma that could change treatment tactics for individuals with severe blood cancer. The study, which identifies a specific sugar molecule that drives tumour growth, could open the path for more customised and effective treatments. 

Lymphoma is a form of blood cancer that affects the white blood cells known as lymphocytes. Among its different variants, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is one of the most prevalent and aggressive, making routine treatments difficult. Researchers have discovered a unique subtype of DLBCL called Mann-type DLBCL, which behaves differently from previous classifications. 

The study, carried out in partnership with scientists from Canada and the United States, was recently published in the journal Blood. It demonstrates that lymphoma cells in this subtype have a sugar molecule called mannose on their surface, which is not commonly seen on normal human cells. This sugar allows cancer cells to survive longer, proliferate faster, and reject traditional anticancer medications. 

Professor Francesco Forconi from the University of Southampton's Cancer B-cell Group emphasises the significance of identifying Mann-type DLBCL, a high-risk cancer that does not respond well to conventional therapies, for patients' treatment plans. Understanding the types of malignancies we battle paves the way for new and superior therapies. 

The researchers evaluated genetic and molecular data from 595 DLBCL patients from two major cohort studies: the BC Cancer Agency (BCCA) and the National Cancer Institute (NCI). They discovered mannose-linked structures in around one-third of all instances. The continuous presence of this sugar in Mann-type DLBCL explains why these tumours tend to develop more rapidly and do not respond to chemotherapy. 

Co-author Professor Max Crispin, Director of the University of Southampton's Institute for Life Sciences, called the discovery "remarkable." He stated that carbs have a significant impact on cancer biology, which is unique. Finding mannose structures that drive cancer growth is an excellent illustration of how multidisciplinary science, which combines molecular insight with clinical data, can revolutionise our understanding of illness." 

Experts believe this discovery signals a watershed moment in the fight against severe blood malignancies. Scientists can design more tailored medicines by discovering molecular markers such as mannose, improving results for patients with previously limited treatment options.