Scientists at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have introduced a new method for cancer treatment that shows promise in early detection and elimination of lung and cervical cancer cells, boosting cancer research.
Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, with studies warning of its growing impact in both developing and developed countries. A study in the Bio Medical Central Journal projected India’s cancer cases to reach 29.8 million by 2025, with the highest burden in North and northeast India. The study also highlighted that over 40% of India’s cancer cases would come from seven main sites: lung, breast, oesophagus, mouth, stomach, liver, and cervix uteri.
Researchers utilized hybrid gold and copper sulphide nanoparticles to target the progression of malignancy into solid tumors. These particles have photothermal, oxidative stress, and photoacoustic properties that enhance cancer detection.
Early detection and treatment have improved the survival rates for breast and other cancers significantly.
In an experiment, cancer cells were exposed to infrared light at different frequencies for imaging and photothermal analysis. The results showed a 25% cancer killing rate, according to Jaya Prakash, Assistant Professor at IISc’s Department of Instrumentation and Applied Physics.
The team’s findings, published in the ACS Applied Nano Materials, suggest that the nanoparticles could also aid in diagnosing other types of cancers.
(Anjali Marar works at the Raman Research Institute in Bengaluru)
