Cancer breakthrough for Vic researchers

A medical breakthrough discovered by Melbourne researchers could potentially save lives by fighting cancer.

Researchers from Walter and Eliza Hall Institute (WEHI) have discovered that by blocking a protein called MCL-1 it will kill off cancer cells.

Dr Gemma Kelly, of the institute's Molecular Genetics of Cancer division, said cancers such as leukaemia and lymphoma depend on MCL-1 to live.

"We have found we can kill cancer cells by disabling the protein MCL-1," Dr Kelly told AAP.

"This leads to a very rapid death of cancer cells."

While the research is in its primary stage, scientists are optimistic that it will become available to the public after a number of clinical trials.

Dr Kelly said the research will bring some hope to those suffering with cancer since a large majority, up to 70 per cent of human cancers have MCL-1.

"We are very excited about this work," Dr Kelly said.

She said the research team at WEHI have been working on the project for four years.