12 December 2018

Anti-cancer spray gel

Antibody gel prevents cancer recurrence

Sergey Kolenov, Hi-tech+

Most people diagnosed with cancer go through some kind of surgery. But tumors often return even after removal. The development of scientists from the University of California at Los Angeles will make surgery much more effective.

gel.jpg

The image of the gel obtained using a scanning electron microscope – VM.

Researchers have created a spray gel that stimulates the immune system. It consists of biodegradable calcium carbonate particles filled with antibodies against the CD47 protein. With the help of this protein, the tumor blocks the work of macrophages. So its inhibition allows the immune system to recognize and destroy malignant cells, according to a UCLA press release, a Sprayable gel developed by the UCLA-led team could help the body fight off cancer after surgery.

Article by Chen et al. In situ sprayed bioresponsive immunotherapeutic gel for post-surgical cancer treatment is published in the journal Nature Nanotechnology – VM.

To test the effectiveness of the gel, scientists tested it on laboratory mice that had melanoma removed.

The experiment showed that the drug stops the re-growth of cancer cells preserved after surgery. Moreover, the use of the gel limited the development of tumors not only at the site of application, but also in other parts of the body.

Another important advantage of the new product is low toxicity.

Scientists will continue to test the gel on animals to identify the optimal dose and concentration. After that, they plan to start clinical trials with human participation.

According to experts, the number of surgical operations will be significantly reduced in the near future. Thanks to the achievements of genomics and early diagnosis, cancer and other diseases can be successfully treated without resorting to surgery. And those operations that will still be carried out will become more efficient due to the use of robots.

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