A groundbreaking study published in Science Advances reveals that the body's natural killer cells can specifically target and attack the XPO1 protein, which is linked to cancer growth. Led by Professor Salim Khakoo from the University of Southampton, the research suggests that activating these immune cells could lead to new, less invasive cancer treatments. Previous beliefs that killer cells attack cancer cells randomly have been challenged, as the study shows a clear mechanism for this immune response. Patients with both active killer cells and high levels of XPO1 demonstrated significantly improved survival rates across various cancer types, including liver cancer. The researchers are now developing a vaccine that utilizes this mechanism to enhance cancer immunotherapy, potentially offering personalized treatment options where traditional therapies have failed. The findings hint at a future where the immune system can be harnessed more effectively against cancer, minimizing the side effects associated with conventional treatments.