manshimajin Posted August 15, 2009 Share Posted August 15, 2009 Some potentially interesting news about a drug called Salinomycin. A multi-institutional team of Boston-area researchers has discovered a chemical that works in mice to kill the rare but aggressive cells within breast cancers that have the ability to seed new tumors. These cells, known as cancer stem cells, are thought to enable cancers to spread — and to reemerge after seemingly successful treatment. Although further work is needed to determine whether this specific chemical holds therapeutic promise for humans, the study shows that it is possible to find chemicals that selectively kill cancer stem cells. The scientists’ findings appear in the August 13 advance online issue of Cell. Clearly early days yet but the paper goes on to say that salinomycin used in mice was 100 times more effective in destroying cancer stem cells and reversing tumours than the conventional chemotherapeutic drugs currently used in humans. A development that may offer some hope and well worth keeping an eye on. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ScorpionFish Posted August 15, 2009 Share Posted August 15, 2009 Yes I heard this on the Today programme yesterday on Radio 4. I agree sounds very interesting and potentially very hopeful. A lot less invasive than current Chemo treatments. Lets keep fingers crossed. debs Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Gladys Posted August 15, 2009 Share Posted August 15, 2009 Very good news. I hope it filters through for all cancer patients. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dr Lecter Posted August 15, 2009 Share Posted August 15, 2009 Very good news. I hope it filters through for all cancer patients. Good news for all. - For once no sarcasm - honest! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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