CANCER FIGHTING WASP TOXIN DISCOVERED

Sep 01, 2015

By Michael Kramer

Share on

The insect world is helping – in the fight against cancer.

Scientists have found the venom of a Brazilian social wasp contains a powerful “smart drug” – which selectively targets and destroys cancer tumour cells – without harming normal ones.

wasp

 

The venom blasts gaping holes in protective membranes around tumour cells – by interacting with fatty molecules called lipids .

In lab tests the poison suppressed the growth of prostate and bladder cancer cells as well as leukemia cells – resistant to a range of drugs.

Researchers at Brazil’s Sao Paolo State University found that the way certain lipids are embedded on the outside of cancer cell membranes – makes them susceptible to the powerful wasp toxin – which creates big holes through which molecules vital to a cancer cell’s survival – leak out.

The findings are published in the Biophysical Journal.

Advertise With Us

To learn about advertising opportunities with Zoomer Radio use the link below:

Join Our Fan Club
Coverage Area
Downtown Toronto
96.7FM
Toronto HD
96.3 HD-2
Kingston to Windsor, Parry Sound to Pittsburgh
AM740
ZoomerRadio Logo

Recently Played: