In causing tumors, key role is played by cells that can be formed into other types of tissue in the body and this has been stated by scientists.

In the battle against cancer, a new target has been pinpointed. Scientists believe that tumors are spread by stem cells that are the precursors of normal skin, blood and other types of tissue in the body, or at least a crucial role is played by them in a tumors development.

Drugs for deactivating affected stem cells will be developed for which a consortium of research groups has been set up by Cancer Research UK, CRUK, Britain's biggest cancer charity.

Experts believe that tumors will not be developed as these medicines will stop these cells from dividing.

It has been informed by people who were a part of the project that the whole thing will take at least two years. The new medicines will primarily target cancers of the skin and blood.

Dr Clive Stanway, chief officer of Cancer Research Technology, the charity's commercial arm said, "Stem cells are responsible for renewing tissue in the body. But sometimes they are subverted by cancerous processes."