Researchers have observed for the first time how cancer cells attack and destroy the bone of leukaemia patients using a new "street view" system to zoom in and spy on the invaders.

The never-before-seen technique is tipped to revolutionise research and new treatments for any type of cancer which spreads to the bone, including from the breast, prostate or melanoma.

"In close to real time we watched the cancer cells stripping away the bone," said immunologist Edwin Hawkins, who led the Australian research team involved in the discovery. "It was like watching students at a house party trashing a place when the parents were away."