An enzyme that turns non-malignant breast tissue into tumours has been identified by scientists from the Institute of Cancer Research.

They also found that they could reduce the chance of a tumour forming by blocking the enzyme lysyl oxidase (LOX).

Dr Janine Erler, co-author of the research, said: "Our study shows that stiffening of the breast tissue controlled by enzymes such as LOX are a key factor in cancer development, suggesting these enzymes are a promising candidate drug target."

She added that the enzyme triggers a "clear physical change" in breast tissue and, if this can be prevented, the growth of any cancers could be slowed and would be easier to eradicate.

According to research published last month, women who don their women's fitness wear and exercise during later adulthood have a reduced risk of postmenopausal breast cancer.

The researchers found that postmenopausal women who did more than seven hours per week of moderate to vigorous exercise during the past ten years were 16 per cent less likely to develop breast cancer than those that were inactive. ADNFCR-2569-ID-19470744-ADNFCR

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