2023-07-30 17:18:32
Israeli Researchers Develop Targeted Technique to Destroy Bone Marrow Cancer
JERUSALEM, 07/30/2023 (TPS) — In a groundbreaking development in the battle against myeloma, Israeli researchers have successfully created a targeted technique that effectively destroys bone marrow cancer. Myeloma, also known as multiple myeloma, is a type of cancer that affects the plasma cells produced in the bone marrow. As the disease spreads to the bone marrow of myeloma patients, it disrupts the production of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. White blood cells are particularly crucial in generating the antibodies that protect individuals from infections.
The majority of individuals are diagnosed with this disease around the age of 70. Although the causes remain unknown, having a family history of the disease is a known risk factor. Those who have been exposed to radiation or carcinogens such as pesticides, benzene, or asbestos are also at a higher risk.
Currently, multiple myeloma cannot be cured. Patients, once diagnosed, typically live for five to 10 years, and in some cases, up to 20 years, depending on the success of their treatment in “managing” the cancer. Presently, treatment for the disease involves the use of steroids, bone-altering drugs, and chemotherapy.
Nevertheless, a team of researchers from Tel Aviv University and Rabin Medical Center in Tel Aviv have discovered a new method to destroy cancer cells in the bone marrow by utilizing targeted lipid nanoparticles that deliver an RNA-based drug directly to the bone marrow cells. Their research, published in the journal Advanced Science, has demonstrated promising results.
Under the leadership of Prof. Dan Peer from Tel Aviv University, the researchers developed lipid-based nanoparticles, similar to those used in the COVID-19 vaccine, which carry RNA molecules designed to inhibit the CKAP5 gene. By blocking this gene, the researchers successfully impeded the division of cancer cells, leading to their eventual demise.
“The system we have developed for the targeted delivery of drugs is the first that effectively reaches cancer cells in the bone marrow,” explained Prof. Peer. “Our technology opens up new possibilities for the selective delivery of RNA drugs and vaccines against cancerous tumors and diseases that originate in the bone marrow.”
To ensure the nanoparticles specifically targeted cancer cells in the bone marrow and minimized the risk of harming healthy cells, the research team coated them with antibodies.
In laboratory conditions, the nanoparticles developed by the researchers eradicated approximately 90 percent of cancer cells. In the next phase of testing, the new treatment was administered to cancer samples taken from patients with multiple myeloma who were receiving treatment at Rabin Medical Center. The success rate for these samples was 60 percent.
Subsequently, the nanoparticles’ ability to reach the bone marrow was tested in an animal model. The researchers discovered that after a single injection, the RNA had entered 60 percent of multiple myeloma cancer cells in the bone marrow.
“Patients with multiple myeloma experience severe bone pain, anemia, kidney failure, and a weakened immune system,” stated Dana Tarab-Ravski, a graduate student involved in the research. “There is an ongoing need to develop new therapies for multiple myeloma. RNA-based therapy offers a major advantage because it can be developed quickly and tailored to the individual patient.”
With further research and development, this breakthrough discovery could potentially lead to more effective treatments and improved outcomes for patients battling multiple myeloma.
Image: An illustration of myeloma. Photo: Ella Maru Studio/TPS]
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