How scientists used ‘new generation’ nanomachines to discover form of cancer treatment

An entirely new form of cancer treatment has been discovered that could possibly eradicate tumors and act as a possible alternative to chemotherapy.

Scientists at Rice University in Texas called the method a “new generation” of molecular machines, known as “molecular jackhammers” (MJH).

It occurs by using a cyanine dye, similar to those used in medical imaging, which is then attached to a cancer cell and stimulated using infrared light, which can penetrate deep into a human without damaging them.

This vibrates the cell, causing its membrane to tear open and destroy the cancer.

“Our technology could have lower side effects in contrast to chemotherapy,” said Ciceron Ayala Orozco, lead author on the study, who added it would be most effective against solid tumors.

“Since the molecules can be used at safe doses where the molecule alone is non toxic, the molecule only destroys the tumors where the near-infra-red light is directed to the tumor area. Therefore, the damage can be selective to the tumor area and keep the rest of the body safe.”