Astronomers have developed a method of treating cancer
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
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In the process of studying stars and even holes, astronomers have found out that heavy metals emit low-energy electrons if they are irradiated with X-rays of a certain power. According to scientists, this finding can really be used for more safe and effective treatment of cancer.
So, implants made of gold or platinum can help to destroy tumors with the help of low-energy electrons, while exposing healthy tissues to less radiation.
As the author of the study of Sultan Nahar from the Ohio State University states, the experiment showed that by influencing a gold or platinum atom with a small dose of x-rays in a narrow frequency range, one can obtain a flux of more than 20 low-energy electrons. Electrons injected into the body are capable of killing cancer, splitting the DNA.
Therefore, doctors can inject nanoparticles of heavy metals into and around the tumor, then apply an adapted portion of radiation. The resulting flux of electrons will destroy the cancer from within. Scientists have already built a prototype device that demonstrates how a certain frequency X-rays emit electrons from nanoparticles of heavy metals.
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