Foto: newmedicaleconomics
Posted in Nature NanotechnologyThis breakthrough promises to revolutionize cancer treatment by offering a precise and less invasive alternative to current methods.
Nanorobots that specifically attack tumors
The research team led by Professor Björn Högberg has created a nanorobot with an exceptional ability: to attack only cancer cells. The key to success lies in an innovative design of a nanostructure built from DNA, a technique known as DNA origami.
The nanorobots developed have a lethal weapon hidden inside a DNA structure that is activated in the acidic environment typical of tumors. Under normal conditions, the weapon is inactive, but in the more acidic environment of a tumor, its ability to destroy malignant cells is unleashed.
“It becomes a deadly weapon inside the nanorobot, but only in the right environment,” explains Högberg. This approach avoids damage to healthy cells, a major advantage over conventional treatments that affect all cells.
Promising results in mouse models
Studies on mice with breast cancer tumors showed encouraging results. Injection of the nanorobot reduced tumor growth by 70% compared to mice that received an inactive version of the device. This initial success opens the door to further research.
“Our next step is to test this technology on more advanced cancer models that more accurately reflect the disease in humans,” says Yang Wang, first author of the paper. In addition, the team is evaluating potential side effects and looking at ways to make the nanorobots even more targeted by adding proteins or peptides to their surface that bind to particular cancer types.
A new hope in oncology
The development of these nanorobots represents a significant step towards more precise and personalized cancer treatments. Although there is still work to be done to translate these results to humans, the potential of this technology to change the approach to cancer treatment is promising.
As the research progresses, scientists at Karolinska Institutet continue to refine their innovative approach, hoping that in the near future they will be able to offer an effective and targeted tool to combat cancer with fewer side effects. Nanorobot technology not only opens up new possibilities in cancer treatment, but also marks a milestone in personalised medicine.
