Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison are exploring the potential of shark antibodies to revolutionize cancer treatment. By immunizing nurse sharks with cancer-specific proteins, they are harnessing the sharks' immune systems to generate targeted antibodies that can deliver drugs directly to tumors, minimizing the harmful side effects of chemotherapy.
Novel Approach to Drug Delivery
Dr. Aaron LeBeau, Associate Professor in the Dept. of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine and the Dept. of Radiology at UW-Madison, explained that the sharks are immunized against various types of human cancer, including breast, prostate, melanoma, and lung cancer. This process is similar to how humans receive vaccines. "A simple injection beneath the skin of the shark... the shark’s immune system amounts an immune response towards that protein and develops antibodies against the protein," said LeBeau.
Jayden West, a UW-Madison graduate student working with the sharks, highlighted the unique advantage of using shark antibodies. "We can use these shark antibodies to help traffic these drugs to the tumor and less of it into the body so that a lot of the negative effects of chemotherapy can kind of be reduced," West stated.
Broad Applications Beyond Cancer
The research extends beyond cancer, with the team identifying shark antibodies effective against all variants of COVID-19. They are also exploring the use of these antibodies in potential therapies for Alzheimer's disease and even as an antidote to fentanyl overdose. "We’ve even developed an antibody against fentanyl," LeBeau added, showcasing the versatility of this research.
Clinical Trial Horizon
LeBeau's team is focusing on lung and breast cancer projects, with the hope of initiating clinical trials within the next five years. This timeline reflects the promising progress and potential impact of shark-derived antibodies in future cancer treatments. The UW Carbone Cancer Center is utilizing these research findings for advancements in cancer treatment.
A Unique Research Hub
According to LeBeau, the UW-Madison laboratory is the only one of its kind in the world that is developing shark antibody therapies for cancer. This unique position allows for cutting-edge research and discoveries that could significantly impact the future of cancer treatment and other diseases.
