While studies on cancer treatment continue without slowing down, there has been a very important development in this regard recently. Researchers from Stanford Medicine in the USA have made a discovery that could revolutionize cancer treatments.
Scientists used some bacteria on the skin for this. The genomes of these organisms have been altered to fight cancer and produce the cure.
The treatment appeared to be successful on mice
In tests, this modified bacteria was given to mice with cancer. As a result, it was observed that the tumors began to disappear. What we’re talking about here is a bacterium taken from the hair of mice named “Staphylococcus epidermidis”. This bacterium has been modified to produce a protein that stimulates the immune system.
Michael Fischbach, one of the researchers, also described the results as “magic” in his statements. While Fischbach said that the mice had very aggressive tumors, he also drew attention to the ease of treatment. Accordingly, the treatment took place by removing bacteria from the mice and rubbing them into the hairs on their heads, after replacing them.
The scientists found that this bacterium triggers the production of CD8 T cells, which are immune cells. In their research, they basically produced CD8 T cells that target specific antigens through this bacterium. In this case, these antigens were directed against skin cancer. Successful results occurred when the cells encountered the tumor. These cells were able to multiply rapidly, shrinking the mass or completely eliminating the tumor.
Human trials could begin in a few years
“It was shocking to watch these tumors disappear, especially in an area far from where we applied the bacteria,” Fiscbach said in a statement. Of course, nothing definite can be said yet. Although it is common in humans, we do not know whether Staphylococcus epidermidis bacteria will trigger the immune response in us as well as in mice. However, a different bacteria can be used; Therefore, we can say that the research is promising.
Researchers say more research is needed on the treatment, but they expect human trials to begin in a few years. It is also said that there is a possibility that the treatment can be used against all kinds of infectious diseases other than cancer cells.
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