Cancer stem cell studies could open the door to personalized, targeted treatments for brain cancers
Other Stem Cell Strategies
Scientists in Toronto and in the United Kingdom have developed a new technique to efficiently grow Cancer Stem Cells in the lab. The scientists obtained tissue samples from gliomas donated by recently-diagnosed patients. Using these samples, they developed…
Key to a Cancer Cure?
Cancer Stem Cells (CSC’s) may finally be a key to curing Cancer. Recent new discoveries indicate only a tiny fraction of CSC’s may transform into new tumours. Current chemotherapy drugs were not developed for and may not kill… all of these. Targeting and killing these CSC’s may thus finally be a new way forward in curing Cancer, just as antibiotics cure infectious diseases. A new drug ‘salinomycin’ derived from the actinomycetes group, (as are most antibiotics) has recently been shown to selectively kill CSC’s.
Salinomycin however, has some unpleasant toxic side effects,that may limit its general use.
Celgenics Directors and other researchers consider that there may be other actinomycetes derivatives that may be more effective in killing Cancer Stem Cells. The company has begun work in the area.
Other Stem Cell Strategies
Adult Stem Cells have also shown promise in potential cures for Diabetes, Alzheimers, Multiple Sclerosis and other conditions – including repair and regeneration of spinal cord, heart and other organs. There is also scope for rejuvenation and anti-aging treatments.
Note: Adult Stem Cells (including CSC’s) are different to and should not be confused with controversial embryonic stem cells.
