Penn study shows how some intestinal cells resist chemotherapy and radiation

(University of Pennsylvania) When treating cancer with chemotherapy and radiation, decisions about dose must walk a fine line between attacking cancerous cells and preserving healthy ones. Overly aggressive radiation therapy to the torso, for example, can damage the epithelial cells that line the intestines, leading to chronic gastrointestinal problems. A new study from the University of Pennsylvania now shows how some intestinal cells can withstand chemotherapy and radiation.