In times of global suspicions (currently not supported by any evidence) there is confirmation: viruses can be "built" in the laboratory, but not all of them have negative effects. One in particular, according to new research, has decidedly positive qualities.
Researchers at Hokkaido University in Japan have genetically engineered adenoviruses, which are a family of viruses that cause mild symptoms, to fight cancer. As? By replicating inside tumor cells and killing them.
The research it is reported in a new article in the journal Cancers.
An “enriched” virus to fight cancer
To do this, Fumihiro Higashino, a molecular oncologist, and his team have inserted elements rich in adenylate-uridylate (ARE) from two human genes (a stabilizing element found in a type of macromolecule present in all biological cells) in two strains of the virus to help them specific to attack all cancer cells.
“The idea behind it is that AREs will stabilize adenoviruses, allowing them to replicate only inside tumor cells but not in normal healthy cells”, said Higashino in a note.
The research
To test the modified virus, the researchers inserted human tumor cells under the skin of naked mice. They then injected the adenovirus into the tumors, causing significant shrinkage, the researchers said.
Higashino said the results are promising not only for fighting cancer but for a range of other diseases.
“The viruses we designed may also have the potential to treat diseases other than those oncologic. For example, those related to inflammation, viral infection, hypoxia and ultraviolet irradiation", said Higashino.
