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Nanoparticle Drug Delivery Shows Promise in Ovarian Cancer Treatment

  • Polish scientists have developed a novel nanotechnology-based treatment for ovarian cancer that targets cancer cells directly, minimizing harm to healthy tissue.
  • The treatment utilizes nanoparticles to identify and target mucins, proteins that form a protective shield around ovarian cancer cells, delivering drugs specifically to the tumor.
  • Preclinical trials in animals have demonstrated a halt in tumor growth and improved overall condition compared to traditional drug delivery methods, showing promising results.
  • Researchers are refining the method and assessing its long-term impact, with the potential to revolutionize cancer treatment by offering more effective and less invasive options.
A team at the West Pomeranian University of Technology (ZUT) and the Pomeranian Medical University (PUM) has developed an innovative approach to treating ovarian cancer using nanotechnology. The method aims to deliver drugs directly to cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue, addressing a significant challenge in ovarian cancer treatment where tumor cells often spread within the abdominal cavity.

Targeting Mucins with Nanoparticles

The novel treatment targets mucins, proteins produced by ovarian cancer cells that form a protective shield. Dr. Agnieszka Piegat, who leads the research, explained that the nanoparticles are designed to identify and target these mucins, delivering the drug specifically to the cancer cells while leaving healthy cells unaffected. This targeted approach contrasts with conventional cancer treatments like chemotherapy, which can damage healthy cells and cause severe side effects.

Promising Preclinical Results

Preclinical trials on animals have shown promising results. According to Dr. Piegat, the researchers have observed a halt in tumor growth and improved overall condition in animals treated with this therapy compared to traditional drug delivery methods. Researchers are currently analyzing the distribution of the medication within the body and its effects on internal organs and gut flora.

From Stomach Ulcers to Ovarian Cancer

The project, supervised by Prof. Aneta Cymbaluk-Płoska and Prof. Danuta Bogacka, evolved from the Polish "Lider" program, which initially focused on developing drug delivery carriers for treating stomach ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori. Encouraged by the success of that research, the team adapted the technology for ovarian cancer, encapsulating carboplatin, a commonly used chemotherapy drug, within the nanoparticles.

Future Directions

While the treatment is still in the preclinical phase, its success in animal trials represents a significant advancement. Further studies are underway to refine the method and assess its long-term impact. If successful, this approach could revolutionize cancer treatment, providing more effective and less invasive options for patients.
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Reference News

[1]
Polish scientists develop breakthrough cancer treatment - English Section - Polskie Radio
polskieradio.pl · Nov 27, 2024

A team from West Pomeranian University of Technology and Pomeranian Medical University developed a nanotechnology-based ...

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