UK scientists use nanoparticles to selectively target tumors

Researchers at the London, UK, School of Pharmacy say they could have a selective, tumor-targetting chemotherapy drug ready for clinical trials  in two years.

Using nanotechnology, the scientists wrapped anti-cancer genes in  nanoparticles that directed the treatment selectively to tumors in mice  so that it was only taken up by cancer cells, leaving healthy cells  unharmed. Traditional chemotherapy indiscriminately kills cells in the  affected area of the body, which can cause side effects like fatigue,  hair loss or nausea.

This type of technology is particularly relevant for people with cancers  that are inoperable because they are close to vital organs, like the  brain or lungs.  Previous studies showed that the type of gene therapy  used in this study can shrink tumors and cure around 80% of the mice  given the treatment. It is hoped that the technology can be extended to  treat cancer that has spread.