Key points from article :
Researchers has developed ‘nanomachines,’ which use mechanical molecular movements to penetrate and destroy cells.
Selective cancer cell penetration is also possible by using a latch molecule released near cancer cells.
According to 2020 estimates, 1.8 million new instances of cancer were diagnosed in the US, and 600,000 people passed away.
Biological ‘nanomachines’ - even minor structural changes in proteins have a substantial impact on biological processes.
Dr. Youngdo Jeong and team combined 2 nm-diameter gold nanoparticles with molecules that can be folded and unfolded.
Directly kills cancer cells via mechanical movements without anticancer medication.
Normal cells (approx. pH 7.4), the movements of the nanomachines were restricted.
Around cancer cells (approx. pH 6.8), the latch molecules were untied, inducing mechanical movement and cell penetration.
Dr. Jeong said, "[]This could be a new alternative to overcome the side effects of existing chemotherapy.”
Research led by Dr. Youngdo Jeong, published in American Chemical Society.
