Cancer is one of the deadliest diseases the world has ever known, killing millions of people each year.
To date, there are numerous treatments available yet those often affect healthy cells while trying to eradicate the cancer cells. This results in various side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and kidney damage.
So, it is with great pleasure that researchers behind a medical breakthrough announced their discovery: a new set of molecules that can effectively kill cancer cells while protecting healthy cells!
Right now, cisplatin is one of the most common treatment options being used for several forms of cancer. Although effective, the drug also has several negative side effects as it does not only target cancer cells but affect healthy cells in the process.
The new set of molecules has similar properties with cisplatin yet has the opposite effect on healthy cells.
Known as FMD compounds or nonplatinum-based halogenated molecules, these molecules have been studied extensively using human and mouse cells. Research results have shown that when FMD compounds enter a cancer cell, a strong reaction forms free radicals that force the cell to undergo self-destruction.
On a brighter side, when the FMD compounds reach healthy cells, these cells release more glutathione (GSH) which protects from chemical toxins; thus, the cells are protected and are not damaged.
Studies on mice have shown that FMD compounds are as effective as cisplatin without being toxic. Human cells in the laboratory have also reacted in a similar manner towards FMD compounds but extensive clinical trials still need to be undertaken before drugs containing these molecules could be released for public use.
Still, this breakthrough is exciting as it represents the prospect of a safer treatment for cancer patients. If clinical trials will have positive results, then effective yet safer drugs could soon be made available in the market and could save the lives of millions afflicted by cancer.
