Nanotechnology has been used for the first time to destroy cancer cells with a highly targeted package of ‘tumour busting’ genes. The technique, which leaves healthy cells unaffected, could potentially offer hope to people with hard-to-treat cancers where surgery is not possible. Although it has only been tested in mice so far, the researchers hope for human trials in two years. The UK study is published online by the journal Cancer Research. School of Pharmacy, London The genes were wrapped up in microscopic nano-particles, 80,000 times smaller than the width of a human hair, which were taken up by cancer cells, but not their healthy neighbours. Once inside, the genes stimulated production of a protein which destroys the cancer. The researchers say the technology could potentially be particularly relevant for people with cancers that are inoperable because they are close to vital organs. They hope it will eventually also be used to treat cancer that has spread. ‘Exciting step’ Lead researcher Dr Andreas Schatzlein, from the School of Pharmacy in London, said: ‘Gene therapy has a great potential to create safe and effective cancer treatments but getting the genes into cancer […]