As most here probably know, many "untargeted" cancer drugs go after fast-replicating cells, which is a common characteristic of cancer cells. (Thus the loss of hair associated with many older chemotherapies , since hair is composed of fast-growing cells.) Unfortunately, most such untargeted drugs can/do have serious side effects - due to being more or less indiscriminant about the targets of their action.
This interesting approach from the University of Chicago's Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering uses a drug that activates the cytokine IL-12. IL-12 has been shown to be effective at activating T-cells against cancer, but has never been approved for use due to its severe side effects, including organ damage. To negate these side effects, they have "capped" IL-12 in a way that prevents it from activating T-cells until it is in close proximity to a tumor. The caps are then removed by an enzyme produced by cancer cells and the released IL-12 is allowed to activate nearby T-cells to attack the tumor.
The proof of concept has been verified with 90% and 100% cure rates in breast and colon cancer mouse models. The next stage is to get the treatment into human trials. Thus, we have another possible PCa treatment to for us to keep on our radar screens.
Here is a link to an interview with one of the study authors:
‘Masked’ cancer drug stealthily trains immune system to kill tumors while sparing healthy tissues, reducing treatment side effects - The Conversation -1 June 2022
theconversation.com/masked-...
And a link to the full research paper:
Cell surface–tethered IL-12 repolarizes the tumor immune microenvironment to enhance the efficacy of adoptive T cell therapy - Science Advances -27 Apr 2022 - Vol 8, Issue 17 - DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abi8075
science.org/doi/10.1126/sci...
You all already know what the npfisherman says about Science . . .
Keep it safe and Be well - ciao - K9
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