In contemporary science, an innovative method for treating oncological ailments is actively advancing, built upon the utilization of photodynamic inactivation technology. This technique, which has already proven its worth in the field of donor blood disinfection, shows strong efficacy in eliminating pathogenic microbes, including viruses, bacteria, and parasites, using riboflavin and ultraviolet radiation. Researchers intend to adapt this technology for combating malignant cells, opening novel prospects in cancer treatment.
Per an article published in the journal Science, the core of the technique involves the selective destruction of tumorigenic cells followed by the reintroduction of modified cells into the body to trigger a targeted immune response. Initial experimental studies on laboratory animals, such as mice and dogs, yielded promising findings, providing a basis for transitioning to clinical trials involving human subjects. Specifically, the plan includes enrolling women with recurrent ovarian cancer, which signifies a major stride in the evolution of personalized medicine.
A vital element of the technology is riboflavin (vitamin B2), which interacts with the DNA and RNA of cells. Under exposure to ultraviolet rays, riboflavin initiates photo-induced damage to the cells’ genetic material, leading to the inhibition of their proliferation while preserving cellular structural integrity. This idea was put forth by chemist Ray Goodrich of the University of Colorado, who foresaw the potential application of this procedure in oncology.
Scientists surmise that the treated cancer cells could serve as the foundation for creating bespoke anti-cancer inoculations. The altered cells lose the capacity to form tumors but retain the complete array of neoantigens—unique proteins recognized by the immune system. This allows for overcoming a primary hurdle in developing cancer treatments, which relates to the necessity of pinpointing the most effective antigens specific to each individual patient.
Nevertheless, certain apprehensions exist within the academic community regarding the effectiveness and safety of this approach. Immunologist Lawrence Fong from the Fred Hutchinson Center points out that vaccines based on whole tumor cells, despite decades of investigation, have not yet demonstrated conclusive favorable outcomes. Oliver Finn from the University of Pittsburgh stresses that tumors possess the ability to suppress the immune response, even when it has been successfully aroused.
The first phase of clinical testing is scheduled at the City of Hope medical center in California. The study will involve eight women suffering from recurrent ovarian cancer. Following surgical removal of the tumorous tissues, the cells will be treated with riboflavin and ultraviolet radiation alongside immunostimulatory agents, subsequently being administered to the patients in three vaccine doses. The primary objective of the trials is to assess the method’s safety and to examine the immune system’s reaction to the therapy.
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