Scientists at the University of Cambridge have created a platform that uses nanoparticles to get the anti-cancer agent to the cells.
The nanoparticles, known as metal-organic frameworks or MOFs could be a viable way of delivering the agent. To come up with the platform the team of scientists used simulations to pinpoint a MOF that has the ideal size to carry the siRNA agent. Once it’s inside the cell it breaks down releasing the agent.
The platform overcomes some of the problems associated with using siRNA’s to treat cancer. The molecules tend to be unstable and break down the defenses naturally found in cells. It’s also difficult to get the agent to the cells that need to be treated. But with the special nanoparticle, the scientists were able to get around that. Another challenge team were able to overcome is the agent being stopped on its path to the cancer cells. Known in the medical community as endosomal entrapment, it occurs when the cell stops an agent from reaching it in a form of a defense mechanism.
Source: Interesting Engineering
Name of Author: Donna Fuscaldo