Scientists Use ‘Trojan Horse’ Method to Turn Cancer’s Defenses Against It
Scientists have a bold new strategy to fight cancer. They are turning the tumor’s own bodyguards against it. This approach acts like a Trojan horse. Instead of attacking cancer cells directly, the new therapy targets their protectors. These protectors are called macrophages. Tumors hijack these immune cells to build a shield.
How the ‘Trojan Horse’ Strategy Works
The therapy uses engineered immune cells called CAR T cells. However, scientists redesigned them for a new mission. These CAR T cells now seek out and eliminate the protective macrophages.As a result, they break down the tumor’s defensive wall. This allows the body’s natural immune fighters to flood in. Consequently, they can then find and destroy the cancer cells.The results from animal studies are stunning. For example, treated mice with aggressive lung and ovarian cancer lived much longer. Many were even completely cured.
Why This Approach Is Different
Current immunotherapies often struggle with solid tumors. These cancers create a strong, protective environment. Therefore, treatments cannot always get inside to work.This new method bypasses that problem. It targets the common shield, not the unique cancer. “We’ve turned foe into ally,” says senior author Dr. Brian Brown.In addition, this makes the treatment “antigen-independent.” It does not need to find a specific marker on the cancer cell. As a result, it could work for many cancer types.
What Comes Next for This Research
Scientists call these findings a powerful proof of concept. However, human trials are still needed. The team is now refining the therapy for safety.They aim to control the powerful immune signals released inside the tumor. Their goal is to maximize the cancer-killing effect safely.This research opens a new door for treating advanced cancers. It offers hope for patients with tumors that resist current therapies. The future of cancer treatment might involve tricking the disease into defeating itself.
