Researchers recently discovered a revolutionary treatment for cancer in which healthy cells would be largely unharmed.
Scientists at RMIT University have developed very small cancer-killing particles, called nanodots, which can destroy cancer cells while protecting healthy cells.
Made from molybdenum oxide, these nanoparticles release reactive oxygen molecules. These unstable molecules can push cancer cells toward apoptosis, a programmed cell death, as reported by the study’s principal investigators, Professor Jian Zhen Ou and Dr. Baoyue Zhang.
During the experimental phase, these nanodots show high effectiveness in killing cervical cancer cells three times faster than healthy cells over 24 hours.
“Cancer cells already live under higher stress than healthy cells. Our particles push that stress a little further, enough to trigger cancer cells to self-destruct, while healthy cells do just fine,” Zhang said.
Recent experience offers key advantages over existing cancer treatments. Existing cancer therapies damage healthy cells in the body as well as tumors. Unlike therapies that require light, nanodots can also work effectively in complete darkness.
Additionally, Nanodots are made from a widely used metal oxide, so they offer a more affordable and safer option.
The research study involves a global collaboration between the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health (Melbourne) and several institutions in China (Southeastern, Hong Kong Baptist and Xidian Universities).
The research is still in its early stages as it has only been tested on cells grown in the laboratory. It has not yet been tested on animals or humans.
