Scientists were able to double the effectiveness of radiotherapy
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
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Specialists from Georgia have developed a method to reduce the ability of cancer cells to restore irreversible ruptures of the double strand of DNA caused by radiation therapy.
"The big problem with radiation therapy is its side effects," said the author of the study, Dr. William C. Dianen. "We believe that we can destroy the same if not more, the number of cancer cells with a lower dose of radiation and, possibly, cure the patient who has this treatment showed ineffective results. "
The mechanism of action of radiation therapy is to destroy cancer cells, causing breaks in DNA. But it is also known that cells, including cancer cells, have internal mechanisms to prevent these injuries.
After studying many types of cancer, including lung cancer, scientists have discovered that cancer cells have a large number of folic acid receptors. By synthesizing specific antibodies against folic acid, the researchers achieved the destruction of a significant number of cancer cells.
"Previous attempts to destroy the ability of cancer cells to avoid radiation damage have been directed at receptors on their surfaces," said co-author of the study molecular biologist Shuyi Li.
To get a more direct hit, the researchers used folic acid receptors. Specific antibodies of ScFv 18-2, when bound to these receptors, are sent directly to the nucleus of the cell, where ScFv 18-2 attacks regulatory regions of the protein of DNA-dependent kinase, the enzyme necessary for DNA repair, which makes cancer cells more vulnerable.
This approach can be used to deliver any quantity of drugs directly to cancer cells.
At the moment, folic acid receptors are also used as entry points for chemotherapeutic drugs, including in the treatment of ovarian cancer.
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