Moscow: Russian scientists are developing a new method of curing cancer, revealed Alexander Sobolev, corresponding member of the Russian Academy of Sciences and head of RAS’ Molecular Genetics of Intracellular Transport laboratory.
The researchers, Sobolev told Scientific Russia magazine, have developed artificial protein molecules that can “identify” cancerous cells and enter these cells’ nuclei via intracellular transport mechanisms.
These artificial molecules could potentially be used to carry toxic agents such as radioactive isotopes that would ensure the destruction of cancerous cells with minimal risk of affecting neighboring non-cancerous cells.
Dubbed “modular nanotransporters”, these tiny cells consist of several modular blocks that can be altered depending on the task at hand.
Sobolev explained that Rosatom’s modular transporter—currently undergoing testing—comprises four key components. The first module detects cancer cells by targeting specific receptors on their membranes. Once inside the cell, the second module pierces the membrane bubble, granting access to the cell’s interior.
A third module, carrying a sequence of amino acids, directs the payload to the nucleus. The final module maintains the transporter’s 3D structure and enables attachment of the toxic payload. All four stages have already been successfully demonstrated in laboratory experiments, Sobolev said.
The safety of the new method had also been confirmed by previous tests of a similar modular nanotransporter involving the P. Hertsen Moscow Oncology Research Institute and A. Tsyb Medical Radiological Research Center.
Having realised that virtually any kind of payload can be attached to the molecules they have developed, the researchers also came up with a concept of a “diving antibody”: an antibody or a molecule similar to it that could “dive” into a target cell and interact with the target protein within.
Thus, another module was created: a molecule similar to an antibody that could interact with target proteins. One such “diving antibody” has already proven capable of protecting cells from oxidative stress.
Another “diving antibody” can identify coronavirus proteins and direct intracellular ferments to destroy that protein. According to Sobolev, this method could be used to create a cure for COVID, “and not just for COVID.”
In order for these creations to actually become medication, however, they first need to undergo preclinical and clinical trials.
The modular nanotransporter method is specifically designed to deal with micro-tumors that are especially difficult to detect and hard to get rid of.
The researchers also intend to pursue other directions of investigation that emerge during their studies, exploring potential new applications for these artificial molecules.
