Innovative Light-Activated Compound Shows Promise Against Drug-Resistant Cancer

Scientists at the Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST) have developed a groundbreaking light-activated compound that targets drug-resistant cancer cells. This innovative approach could potentially revolutionize cancer treatment by circumventing one of the most significant barriers in oncology: drug resistance.

The research team, led by Professors Tae-Hyuk Kwon, Duyoung Min from UNIST, and Taiho Park from POSTECH, has published their findings in the journal Advanced Science.

Cancer cells possess a remarkable ability to adapt, making them particularly challenging to treat. One of the key survival mechanisms employed by these cells is autophagy, a process where cells break down and recycle their components. This mechanism not only aids in the disposal of anticancer drugs but also allows cancer cells to generate energy and evade immune detection.

To address this issue, the researchers designed a photoreactive compound that combines morpholine and iridium. Morpholine specifically targets lysosomes, the cellular organelles responsible for autophagy, while iridium becomes activated upon exposure to light, leading to oxidative damage in the cells.

In preclinical studies involving mice with drug-resistant pancreatic cancer, researchers observed remarkable results. Following the administration of the photoreactive compound and subsequent exposure to infrared light, the drug-resistant tumors showed a significant reduction in size, with complete tumor elimination achieved in just seven days.

The mechanism behind this success involves the compound disrupting the lysosomal membrane and inhibiting its fusion with autophagosomes, which are crucial for isolating cellular waste. The research team is now looking to further investigate additional proteins involved in the oxidative damage process.

Mingyu Park, the lead researcher on the study, noted that collaboration with O2Medi Co., Ltd. allowed for toxicity assessments and evaluations of anticancer efficacy in the animal model.

Professor Kwon highlighted the potential of this method, stating that it may significantly improve treatment strategies for challenging cancers that exhibit drug resistance. The research team is also exploring the effectiveness of combining this new therapy with existing anticancer drugs, such as gemcitabine.