This new approach targets cancer cells to combat them

Cancer remains one of the most formidable diseases of our time, causing hundreds of thousands of deaths each year in France. Yet, the rise of immunotherapy is opening new avenues in the treatment of this devastating disease.

Researchers at the University of Virginia have developed an innovative method to fight cancer by harnessing the body's immune system potential. This approach, detailed in a recent publication in the journal Science Advances, relies on cytokines, small messenger proteins released by immune cells to coordinate their response.


Professor Rong Tong and his colleague, Professor Wenjun Cai have thus tackled a major challenge: how to exploit immunotherapy with perfect control? "Cytokines are powerful and very effective at stimulating immune cells to eliminate cancer cells," said Rong Tong. "The issue is that they are so potent that if they freely circulate throughout the body, they will activate any immune cell they encounter, which can lead to a hyperactive immune response and potentially fatal side effects."

The researchers have succeeded in developing a technique that ensures that cytokines, once injected, remain localized in the tumors for several weeks, thus maximizing their efficacy while reducing the potentially lethal side effects associated with their dispersal throughout the body. Unlike chemotherapy, which indiscriminately attacks all cells, this new method specifically targets cancer cells while sparing healthy cells. By combining chemical engineering and materials, the researchers have created specialized particles that transport the cytokines directly to the tumors, thereby minimizing damage to healthy tissue.

This innovative approach represents hope for many cancer patients, offering the possibility of more effective and less invasive treatment. Although further research is necessary, this study signifies a significant advancement in the fight against this devastating disease.