Researchers at Duke Medical have found a way to specifically target prostate cancer using copper. It is well known that cancerous prostate cells, among other types of cancer cells, are rich in copper. They are hungry for the element, and can be identified just by tracking their copper levels. At first, researchers tried to starve the cells of the copper, but that didn't result in significant results. Instead, they are taking drugs that are activated through the addition of copper. They are using the copper that the cells have to activate these drugs. This way, the chemotherapy becomes specific and spares other healthy cells.
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This is very interesting, and it sounds like it could save a lot of lives. At the very least, it is a step forward towards curing cancer.
ReplyDeleteI feel like almost everyday more strides are made against cancer. The more the better I say, but how is it really going to take?
DeleteHi Sebastian, thank you for posting. How does copper affect other organs besides the prostate?
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