Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide, with various types posing significant challenges in terms of treatment. In a breakthrough development, Japanese researchers have successfully developed a novel therapy that specifically targets cancer cells using alpha particles. This groundbreaking treatment shows promise in effectively combating multiple types of cancer while causing fewer negative side effects compared to current methods like chemotherapy and radiation treatment.
The Global Cancer Challenge
The devastating impact of cancer is evident, with nearly 10 million deaths attributed to the disease globally in 2020. Lung cancer, responsible for 1.80 million deaths, tops the list of cancer-related fatalities. Other prevalent types include colon and rectal cancer, liver cancer, stomach cancer, and breast cancer. While early detection and effective treatment can lead to successful outcomes, the existing treatment options, including surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hormonal treatments, and targeted biological therapies, are tailored to specific cancer types. However, a new breakthrough in cancer treatment has emerged through the efforts of Japanese researchers.
Tumor-Targeted Alpha-Particle Therapy
The Japanese researchers have developed a novel therapy known as tumor-targeted alpha-particle therapy, which exhibits potential in treating multiple types of cancer while minimizing adverse side effects. The team recently published the results of their proof-of-concept study in the journal Chemical Science.
The foundation of this therapy lies in the identification of a compound called acrolein, which is primarily found in cancer cells and nearly absent in healthy cells. Initially, the research team devised a technique using a fluorescent compound and a specific type of azide to detect cancer cells. When the azide and acrolein react, the fluorescent compound illuminates the cancer cells in the body, aiding in their identification.
In the new therapy, instead of using the azide to attach to a fluorescent compound, the researchers linked it to astatine-211, a radionuclide that emits alpha particles capable of selectively killing cancer cells without harming the surrounding healthy cells.
Promising Results and Potential Applications
As part of their proof-of-concept study, the researchers tested the treatment on mice implanted with human lung tumor cells. The injection of the astatine-211-azide probe into the tumor resulted in tumor growth reduced by nearly three times, and all mice survived. When the probe was injected into the bloodstream, 80% of the mice survived. Impressively, a single injection with only 70 kBq of radioactivity effectively targeted and eliminated tumor cells, as highlighted by lead researcher Katsunori Tanaka from Japan’s RIKEN Cluster for Pioneering Research (CPR). Tanaka, alongside Hiromitsu Haba from the RIKEN Nishina Center for Accelerator-Based Science (RNC), led the study.
An additional advantage of this therapy is its potential to treat early-stage cancer, even when the precise location of the tumor is unknown. Moreover, the treatment does not require specific targeting vectors like antibodies or peptides, making it suitable for various types of cancer.
Next Steps: Clinical Trials
With the promising results achieved in the laboratory, the Japanese researchers are now seeking a partner to initiate clinical trials for treating cancer in humans using this innovative therapy. The potential of this new method to revolutionize cancer treatment offers hope for improved outcomes and a brighter future for individuals diagnosed with various forms of cancer.
The Bottom Line
The development of a tumor-targeted alpha-particle therapy by Japanese researchers represents a significant stride in cancer treatment. By specifically targeting cancer cells using alpha particles, this therapy demonstrates the potential to effectively combat multiple types of cancer while minimizing negative side effects. As the researchers progress toward clinical trials, the hope is that this groundbreaking therapy will bring new possibilities and improved outcomes for individuals battling cancer.
