Spanish Researchers Pioneer Advances in Cancer Treatment Despite Funding Challenges
Despite obstacles in securing funding, Spanish researchers are making significant strides in cancer treatment, from re-educating malignant cells to utilizing sea sponge molecules and nanotechnology. These advancements, occurring primarily at institutions like the National Cancer Research Center (CNIO) and the University of Granada, offer new hope in the fight against various cancers, including pancreatic and lung cancer.
Epigenetics: Reversing Malignancy at the Functional Level
Researchers at the Center for Genomics and Oncological Research (GENyO) in Granada are exploring a novel approach to cancer treatment: re-educating malignant cells to reverse their harmful behavior. This differs from traditional methods focused on eliminating cancer cells. The team, led by David Lanteira, is investigating how alterations in DNA function, specifically within the epigenome, contribute to disease development, particularly in aging and cancer.
Their research suggests that epigenetic changes, rather than genetic mutations, may be responsible for some diseases. They are testing existing drugs to restore epigenetic memory, aiming to craft cancer cells less virulent and more responsive to treatment. Initial tests have shown promise in lung cancer, breast cancer, and multiple myeloma.
Nature’s Potential: Sea Sponge Molecules Against Lung Cancer
Professor José Carlos Prados and his team at the University of Granada have discovered potential therapeutic benefits in sea sponges. They genetically modified a molecule derived from a sea sponge and tested it on cells from patients with non-small cell lung cancer, one of the most deadly forms of the disease. The results indicated that the malignant cells were “reduced practically to zero,” with the molecule promoting self-destruction in altered cells and significantly reducing metastases.
Technology: Targeted Protein Degradation with Protac
Researchers at the University of Granada are as well developing therapies using Protac technology, a revolutionary approach focused on degrading proteins. Unlike conventional drugs that block altered proteins, Protac technology aims to completely destroy them. This allows for targeting proteins previously unreachable by traditional methods, potentially leading to lower doses and longer-lasting effects. The research, initiated in 2024, is currently in an advanced phase of experimentation, though human trials are still some time away.
Nanomedicine: Enhancing Drug Delivery with Nanoparticles
Prados’ research group has also designed nanoscale structures to improve cancer treatment through nanomedicine. By combining an existing drug, Olaparif, with a nanoparticle, they’ve enhanced its bioavailability in patients with ovarian and prostate cancer. The nanoparticle protects the drug, prolonging its presence in the bloodstream and increasing its effectiveness in reaching malignant cells. The University of Granada has patented this technology and is seeking funding for further development.
Etiology: The Role of Diet and Stress
The Andalusian School of Public Health (EASP) has been analyzing cancer risk factors in the Granada population since 1985 through the Granada Cancer Registry. Their research, part of a larger European study involving over 521,000 people, has revealed links between diet and cancer development. Specifically, red meat consumption is associated with an increased risk of colon and rectal cancer, while fiber intake offers protection against these and breast cancer.
Current research at EASP is also focused on measuring stress levels through biomarkers, with promising initial results suggesting a correlation between stress and the development of oncological pathologies.
Funding Challenges Hamper Progress
Despite these promising advancements, researchers consistently face challenges in securing adequate funding. Researchers lament delays in receiving grants and insufficient funding amounts, hindering their ability to conduct research and support their teams. Both public and private funding sources are needed to facilitate continued progress. Mariano Barbacid, head of the Experimental Oncology Group at the National Cancer Research Center, requires 30 million euros to finance clinical trials for his pancreatic cancer cure in mice.
Hospitals also rely on a combination of public and private funding to support collaborative research efforts.