Researchers at the City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications (SRTA-City) have developed a new cancer treatment using fig latex, derived from the Ficus carica plant. This novel therapy involves encapsulating the fig latex in special fibers made from cellulose acetate and polyethylene oxide through a process known as electrospinning. The primary goal of this research is to create a cancer treatment that is both more effective and safer than traditional methods.
During their study, the researchers created a unique structure called a nanofiber scaffold, which they examined with various scientific tools. These examinations confirmed the presence of fig latex in the nanofibers and showed that the fibers became finer as more latex was added. This scaffold was tested on colon and liver cancer cells and showed promising results in killing these cancer cells without harming normal, healthy cells. This is particularly important as many current cancer treatments also damage healthy cells, leading to severe side effects.
One of the significant challenges with existing cancer treatments like chemotherapy and photodynamic therapy is that they can harm the patient’s overall health and are often not very selective in targeting cancer cells. In contrast, this new approach using fig latex in nanofibers specifically targets cancer cells more effectively and with fewer side effects.
The study also revealed that this treatment has antioxidant properties, meaning it can protect cells from damage. This is an added benefit, as antioxidants play a crucial role in maintaining health and preventing diseases.
Historically, natural products have been used to treat various diseases, and fig latex has been known for its medicinal properties. This research takes that traditional knowledge further, combining it with modern nanotechnology to offer a new solution for cancer treatment.
In conclusion, the findings from SRTA-City suggest that using fig latex in nanofiber scaffolds could be a revolutionary approach to cancer therapy. This method not only efficiently targets cancer cells but also ensures the safety of normal cells, offering a significant improvement over traditional cancer treatments.
