Now, instead of seeking to overcome such molecular defenses common in cancer cells, researchers have developed a new strategy involving the use of molecular “cages” made up of pseudopeptides that can exclusively target and kill these tumors within their acidic microenvironments — thereby bypassing the disadvantages present in traditional chemotherapy while also providing an opportunity for more specialized treatment.
Fighting Back Against the Restrictions of Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is a life-saving type of treatment for cancer patients, but it has its own limitations. However these treatments are not usually selective and have off target toxicities, and with time some of the chemicals entwicklung into resistant by the cancer cells making the treatment ineffective for a considerable number or patient.
In light of these differences, scientists are now searching for novel strategies to solve them and have introduced molecular ‘cages’ consisting of pseudo peptides as a solution. The idea is the ‘cages’ are designed to only degrade in these slightly acidic pH environments and release their chemotherapeutic payload right at the cancer site, while having little effect on normal tissues.
The Ability of Acidic Microenvironments
Cancer Cells, by their nature metabolize an acidic pH in the environment of Solid Tumors. This acidic environment makes these cells unique because it makes them resistant and able to migrate from their original location i.e metastasize in the body.
Taking advantage of this peculiarity from the IQAC-CSIC, University of Burgos and IDAEA-CSIC researchers have developed a molecular ‘cage’ targeting strategy that specifically targets cancer cells.
The ‘cages’ are based on fluorine-substituted amino acids that interact only under the mildly acidic pH environment in solid tumor microenvironment while being benign at physiological pH of healthy tissues. Through understanding the action mechanism for these molecules and the importance of fluorination in their activities, they are able to find a “cage” which allows more selective killing by reducing healthy cells death outside acidic environment.
Conclusion
The advance of these molecular ‘cages’ is a giant step in fighting chemo drug resistance. These ground-breaking ionophores (ion-transporting molecules) have the potential for selective targeting of cancer cells in acidic microenvironments, which can enhance cancer treatment and reduce peripheral toxicity. These learnings will influence how these potentially transformative therapies are designed and refined, leading to better and more precise approaches to treating cancer.
