The diatoms (green) target the cancer cells (purple) using the antibodies (blue) and release the medicine they are carrying (yellow). (Image credit: Mr. Marc Cirera)
A microscopic algae, called diatoms, have been genetically altered to target and deliver drugs to cancerous cells without harming healthy tissue. Researchers used a two-step strategy to attach antibodies as well as drug molecules to the algae, creating a targeted delivery system.
The authors of the paper say the efficacy of the system, as well as the ability to target certain cancers, must be improved before it can be used as an effective treatment.
Currently doctors can use nanoparticles for the same purpose, however they are more expensive and produce toxic waste. Diatoms are less costly, can be grown in water, and have proven successful in recent trials.
The diatoms were able to kill 90 per cent of cancer cells in a test tube, and when injected into mice, they cause tumour regression.
Original research paper published in Nature Communications on November 11, 2015.
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