An illustration shows how liposome-encapsulated nanomedicine targets cancer cells. /CFP
Chinese researchers from Xi'an Jiaotong University in northwest China's Shaanxi Province have unveiled a nanomaterial capable of inhibiting tumor growth by over 80 percent, according to a study published in the journal Advanced Materials. This breakthrough heralds promising advancements in cancer therapy and the management of associated diseases.
Scientific findings indicate that active oxygen species can effectively eliminate cancer cells. The novel nanomaterial offers the potential for customized regulation within living organisms, enhancing the production efficiency of active oxygen species to combat cancer.
Dang Dongfeng, a professor from the Department of Chemistry, Xi'an Jiaotong University, said that "our nanomaterial offers on-demand regulation, enabling precise concentration and retention of active oxygen species at the tumor site. Administered via tail vein injection, the nanomaterial swiftly targets tumor lesions. By harnessing external light sources, we can stimulate the generation of active oxygen."
A screenshot of the study published in the journal Advanced Materials.
Designing and producing nanomaterials of optimal sizes and prolonging their residence time within the tumor microenvironment pose significant challenges in the realm of optical materials research. The innovation of Chinese researchers enables the self-assembly of nanomaterials, promising enhancements in targeting precision and retention efficacy.
"Our nanomaterial exhibits exceptional assembly capabilities, even within living organisms, ensuring effective retention within tumor cells. It intelligently targets tumor and cancer cells while sparing normal tissues, potentially yielding significant therapeutic benefits," Dang added.
The nanomaterial has undergone successful laboratory development and validation at both cellular and biological levels, demonstrating an impressive tumor inhibition rate exceeding 80 percent.
"We are currently engaged in extensive collaboration and negotiations with relevant hospitals, aiming to advance early-stage clinical transformation research. Our goal is to facilitate the clinical application of optical diagnosis and treatment modalities, offering promising alternatives for the treatment of various cancers," said Dang.