Researchers at the UCLA Henry Samueli School of Engineering and Applied Science have made significant advancements in cancer treatment through the development of a novel degradable nanoscale capsule. This innovative approach aims to enhance the precision and reduce the invasiveness of cancer therapies.
In a recent study published in *Nano Today*, the team, led by Yi Tang, a professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering, has created tiny polymer shells that deliver a protein complex directly to the nuclei of cancer cells, effectively inducing cell death while sparing healthy cells. These shells, measuring approximately 100 nanometers, are composed of a water-soluble polymer that degrades harmlessly in non-cancerous cells, thereby minimizing potential side effects associated with traditional treatments like chemotherapy, which often damage healthy tissue as well.
The protein complex used, known as apoptin, is derived from a virus that affects birds. It accumulates in the cancer cell nucleus and triggers programmed cell death. This method avoids the risks of genetic mutations associated with gene therapies, making it a safer alternative for targeting tumors.
The research has shown promising results, with laboratory tests on human breast cancer cell lines in mice indicating a significant reduction in tumor growth. Muxun Zhao, the lead author of the study, emphasized the effectiveness of the reversible polymer encapsulation strategy in protecting and delivering the protein complex in its active form to cancer cells.
Furthermore, the research team is actively exploring ways to enhance the targeting of tumors, extend the circulation time of the capsules in the bloodstream, and deliver additional therapeutic proteins. This ongoing research could lead to more effective and personalized cancer treatment options.
Recent developments in the field of smart nanoparticles also complement this research. These nanoparticles can respond to biological cues and are being designed to improve drug delivery systems for cancer therapy. They offer the potential for targeted delivery and controlled release of therapeutic agents, which could further enhance the efficacy and safety of cancer treatments[1][2].
The findings from UCLA’s research represent a significant step forward in cancer therapy, providing a unique method that could revolutionize how tumors are treated while preserving healthy cells.
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[1] https://www.nature.com/articles/s41392-023-01642-x
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6215694/
[3] https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2020/nr/c9nr09869k
[4] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23682388/
[5] https://www.researchgate.net/publication/236916849_Degradable_nanoscale_shells_could_provide_unique_cancer_treatment_method
[6] https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/bioengineering-and-biotechnology/articles/10.3389/fbioe.2023.1295323/full
[7] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1748013212001405
[8] https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlehtml/2020/nr/c9nr09869k