Researchers at Tel Aviv University have created a groundbreaking new platform to deliver two cancer-fighting drugs simultaneously to specific types of tumors. This innovative approach boosts treatment effectiveness while reducing side effects, according to a study published in Science Advances.
The development is the result of collaboration between experts from Tel Aviv University and international researchers. The new method involves using nanoparticles that dissolve into water and carbon dioxide within a month to encapsulate two different drugs.
These nanoparticles are guided to tumors by targeting P-selectin, a protein found on cancer cells. Once there, they deliver FDA-approved inhibitors used to treat skin cancer and breast cancer. Tests on 3D cancer cell models and animal models showed promising results, including significant tumor shrinkage and prolonged survival rates for mice treated with the nanoparticles.
The platform has the potential to be adapted to treat other types of cancers, such as glioblastoma and pancreatic cancer, and offers new possibilities for advancing cancer therapy. According to Prof. Ronit Satchi-Fainaro, the development “significantly enhances the therapeutic effect” in certain types of cancer, including BRAF-mutated skin cancers and BRCA-mutated breast cancers.
Source: https://www.jpost.com/health-and-wellness/article-834510