2023-09-07 19:12:53
Title: Breakthrough Cancer Drug “AOH1996” Shows Promise in Destroying Over 70 Cancer Types, Researchers Say
Publication: HomeWorld
Date: September 7, 2023
Author: Nadja Austel
Los Angeles – A groundbreaking new cancer treatment known as “AOH1996” has demonstrated remarkable efficacy in destroying more than 70 types of cancer, according to a study conducted by researchers at City of Hope, one of the largest cancer research organizations in the USA. The study’s findings, published on Tuesday, August 1st, have raised hopes for a potential revolution in cancer therapy.
The drug, which has been under development for two decades, takes a novel approach to combatting cancer by targeting a protein called Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen (PCNA). PCNA is a ring clamp protein that wraps around the DNA during cell reproduction, a process that cancer cells exploit to grow and multiply. Previous methods of targeted cancer therapy had deemed PCNA too challenging to attack.
“This anti-cancer pill acts like a blizzard that disrupts all flights – in this case, cancer cells,” explained Linda Malkas, the lead author of the study and a professor of molecular oncology at City of Hope. Malkas compared PCNA to a major airport terminal with multiple gates, and the drug to a blizzard shutting down the entire hub.
Unlike traditional cancer therapies, which often face challenges posed by mutations and resistance in cancer cells, the study found that AOH1996 was effective in selectively killing cancer cells without toxic effects. By interrupting the normal cycle of cell reproduction, the drug suppresses tumor growth both as a standalone therapy and in combination treatment.
“This drug attacks a new point in order to stop the uncontrolled growth of cancer cells,” explained general practitioner Christoph Specht. The aim is to prevent the cancerous variant of PCNA from attaching itself to the genes of degenerated cells, thereby halting their uncontrollable multiplication.
The study has not only shown initial success in test tubes but has also yielded promising results using animal cells. This development marks a crucial step towards the development of a cancer-fighting pill. Currently, AOH1996 is undergoing Phase 1 human clinical trials at City of Hope, where researchers aim to assess its safety and dosage.
The drug has demonstrated effectiveness in treating a diverse range of cancers, including breast, prostate, brain, ovarian, cervical, skin, and lung cancers. In preclinical research, it has shown efficacy against more than 70 cancer cell lines.
“The pill appears to destroy almost all tumors,” said Specht, emphasizing the potential of this breakthrough drug. Simultaneously, researchers at Wageningen University are pursuing a different approach using certain types of fungi to disrupt the development of cancer cells.
With the global incidence of cancer expected to rise to 30 million new cases annually by 2040, AOH1996 offers a ray of hope in the fight against this devastating disease. As the Phase 1 trials progress and further research is conducted, scientists remain optimistic about the drug’s future potential in transforming cancer therapy.
Disclaimer: The content of this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any treatment or medication.]
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