The anti-cancer drug is the ‘ideal prey for harmful cells’ has been compared to a “Trojan horse” and its effect has been called a “metabolic warhead.”
Scientists at the University of Edinburgh have successfully tested a drug that can kill cancer cells without damaging nearby healthy tissue.
As you know, cancer cells need more energy than healthy cells. Experts combined the SeNBD molecule with a chemical food-grade compound to force the malignant cells to “swallow” it, unaware of the harmful effect.
SeNBD is the smallest photosensitisers ever made – it only kills cells in light.
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This means that the surgeon can determine when to activate the drug, which reduces the chances of damage to healthy tissue and the likelihood of side effects.
The authors of the experiment compared the drug with a Trojan horse.
At the same time, it is emphasized that it is necessary to conduct additional tests on its safety.
The results of the study are published in the journal Nature Communications.
Dr Sam Benson, a post-doctoral researcher at the university, said the mechanism of the drug’s delivery means it is delivered through the “front door of the cell” rather than having to “find a way to batter through the cell’s defences”.
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This was reported by the Evening Standard newspaper.
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