Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery in the fight against cancer, using a novel method to destroy cancer cells without surgery. A study published last year found that stimulating aminocyanine molecules with near-infrared light causes them to vibrate in sync, breaking apart cancer cell membranes.
Aminocyanine molecules are already used in bioimaging as synthetic dyes and are effective at attaching themselves to the outside of cells. The new approach uses molecular machines, called “molecular jackhammers,” which are faster than existing methods and can be activated with near-infrared light.
Tests on lab-grown cancer cells showed a 99% success rate in destroying the cells, while mice with melanoma tumors saw half become cancer-free. The researchers believe that this technique could potentially treat bone and organ cancers without surgery.
The molecular jackhammer method works by creating plasmons, which are collective vibrations of electrons inside the molecules. These vibrations drive movement across the molecule, causing it to bash apart cancer cell membranes. This approach is simple yet effective, making it difficult for cancer cells to evolve a blockade against.
Further research is needed, but the initial findings are promising. The team plans to explore other types of molecules that can be used similarly.
Source: https://www.sciencealert.com/scientists-destroy-99-of-cancer-cells-in-lab-using-vibrating-molecules