Targeted therapy is the hope of many cancer patients, and the research of cancer targeted drugs is also very popular in academic circles. The team led by Wang Huimin, a professor at the Institute of Student Medical Engineering of Zhongxing University, found that iridium, a rare precious metal, can be used as a targeted drug for cancer treatment. Experiments in mice show that it can inhibit the growth of renal cancer. This study has been published in the journal Chemical Science.
Carcinogenic genes lead to tumor formation.
Professor Wang Huimin pointed out that three "RAF kinase subtypes" in mammals are oncogenes. RAF kinase protein plays a key role in the signal transmission of cancer-related genes in cells, and is the main way to regulate the growth cycle, gene expression, survival and differentiation in cells. If the mutation or overexpression of receptor protein or key protein upstream of this pathway leads to abnormal activation of RAF kinase subtype information transduction, it will lead to abnormal cell proliferation and tumor formation.
Iridium is difficult to be absorbed by human body, and there are almost no side effects.
Professor Wang Huimin explained that the melting point of iridium metal is over 2400 degrees Celsius, which is the most corrosion-resistant metal at present, and meteorites contain a lot of iridium. The research team found that iridium metal can inhibit mutant genes associated with cancer. Experiments have proved that iridium can inhibit mouse renal cell carcinoma tumor, and it does not react with biological tissues and is insoluble in water. It is difficult for human body to absorb, which is quite safe and is expected to become a new targeted therapeutic drug.
Subverting life is full of scientific impressions.
Professor Wang Huimin said that in daily life, metals or metal compounds are used in pots and pans, as well as as as supports or decorations; In this study, the research team used metal compounds as targeted drugs to treat cancer, which subverted the general public's impression of metals and showed the ubiquitous and extensive application fields of science.
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