Researchers at the University of Tokyo have discovered a new approach in the fight against cancer using artificial DNA.
According to SciTech Daily, during laboratory research, the new method developed by the Japanese team has proven to be extremely successful in destroying cervical cancer and breast cancer cells.
Specifically, scientists have created a type of artificially synthesized DNA that resembles hairpins. These will attach to micro RNA (miRNA) molecules miR-21, a type of miRNA that is produced in excess by the body in certain cancers.
Graphic illustrating how artificial DNA attacks cancer – (Image: SCITECH DAILY)
The pairs of artificial DNA, after binding to the miRNA, are separated and combined to form a longer DNA strand, activating a much stronger immune response than the natural one.
Thus, artificial DNA will function as a cancer treatment based on immunotherapy. It does not directly target cancer cells but helps the patient’s immune system strengthen sufficiently to halt the disease’s progression.
Cancer treatment based on immunotherapy has been a significant trend in recent years due to its robust and sustainable nature, leveraging the human immune system while generally causing fewer side effects than traditional methods.
The new approach using artificial DNA is seen as innovative and distinct from traditional cancer drug treatments, promising to usher in a new era in cancer drug development.
“We believe that if we can create new types of drugs that operate on a mechanism different from that of conventional drugs, they may be effective in combating forms of cancer that have not been treatable until now,” explained Associate Professor Akimitsu Okamoto, one of the lead authors of the study.
In the research, some of the most challenging cancers, such as triple-negative breast cancer, have been eradicated using this groundbreaking method.
The study has just been published in Journal of the American Chemical Society.
