New drug complex prompts cancer cells to alert immune system
Researchers at Ruhr University Bochum, Germany, have created a drug complex that causes cancer cells to emit signals as they die, triggering the immune system to recognize and eliminate them. This innovative approach could potentially target metastases and improve cancer treatment outcomes. The study was published in the Journal of Medicinal Chemistry on July 17, 2025.
Two junior research groups at Ruhr University Bochum, Germany, have developed a drug complex that kills cancer cells in a unique way. The dying cells send signals to the immune system, alerting it to the presence of harmful cells. This helps the immune system recognize and destroy cancer cells, even those located far from the original tumor, potentially eliminating metastases. Dr. Johannes Karges and Dr. Carlos Plaza-Sirvent presented their findings in the Journal of Medicinal Chemistry on July 17, 2025.
Immunogenic cell death, a rare phenomenon, is crucial in cancer treatment. The drug complex developed by the researchers triggers this type of cell death by inducing oxidative stress in specific cell organelles. This process releases proteins that act as a warning signal to the immune system, enabling it to identify and eliminate cancer cells throughout the body.
The researchers have successfully tested the drug on cervical cancer cell lines and are now working on optimizing its delivery to target cancer cells specifically. Their goal is to ensure that the drug is effective only in cancer cells, sparing healthy cells from damage. Various methods, such as activation by external signals like ultrasound or light, are being explored for this purpose.
According to the source: News-Medical.
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