Remarkable Decrease in Bladder Cancer Tumors by 90% through the Use of Nanorobots
In a groundbreaking development, scientists at the Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC) and CIC biomaGUNE have made significant strides in the field of cancer treatment. Their research, published in the prestigious journal Nature Nanotechnology, reveals the successful reduction of bladder tumours in mice by an impressive 90% through a single dose of urea-powered nanorobots.
These nanorobots, a product of collaborative efforts between institutions including MIT, Harvard University, and Tsinghua University, are designed to target and treat cancerous cells. They consist of a porous sphere made of silica, carrying components such as the enzyme urease and radioactive iodine.
The mobility of these nanorobots increases the likelihood of reaching the tumour, a crucial factor in their effectiveness. Once they arrive at the tumour site, they break down the extracellular matrix through a self-propelling chemical reaction, locally increasing the pH. This process favours the radiotherapeutic effect, making the treatment more potent.
The high accumulation of these nanorobots in the tumour tissue is another factor contributing to their success. This high concentration enhances the radiotherapeutic effect, reducing the chances of generating adverse effects.
To observe the nanorobots in action, the Scientific Microscopy Platform at IRB Barcelona employed a microscopy technique using a sheet of laser light to illuminate samples, allowing the acquisition of 3D images through light scattering upon interaction with tissues and particles. An innovative optical system developed specifically for this project enabled the observation of the entire organ and the identification of nanoparticles throughout the organ without prior labelling.
However, the challenge of deciphering why these nanorobots can enter the tumour remains. They lack specific antibodies to recognise the tumour, and tumour tissue is typically stiffer than healthy tissue. Despite this, the scientists developed a new technique based on polarised light that cancels out all scattering from the tumour tissue and cells, enabling the visualisation and location of nanorobots without the need for prior tagging with molecular techniques.
Samuel Sánchez, ICREA research professor at IBEC, stated that a single dose of these nanorobots is significantly more efficient than current treatments, which typically require six to 14 hospital appointments. The research aims to reduce hospitalization length and costs for bladder cancer patients, ultimately improving their quality of life.
The technology underlying these nanorobots has been patented and serves as the foundation for Nanobots Therapeutics, a spin-off of IBEC and ICREA established in January 2023. The next step in the research is to determine whether these tumours recur after treatment.
This breakthrough in bladder cancer treatment holds immense potential for the future of cancer care. With further research and development, these urea-powered nanorobots could revolutionise the way we treat and manage various types of cancer.
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