This formidable new approach uses ultrasound to target and eradicate cancer

Researchers at the University of Southern California have developed a new targeted approach, using gene editing and bursts of ultrasound to effectively eliminate cancer cells.

Combined therapy

CRISPR is a powerful tool that relies on an enzyme called Cas9 to modify specific genes. As these molecular scissors are likely to migrate to unwanted parts of the body and trigger problematic immune reactions, the authors of the new study, published in the journal Nature Communicationshave found a way to precisely control their action.

This involves the encapsulation of CRISPR into viral vectors, which can be administered intravenously. Focused ultrasound pulses are then directed towards the desired body part to activate the treatment tool.genetic editing on demand.

Tested on mice, the molecular scissors specifically targeted the telomeres (caps at the end of chromosomes) of cancer cells. Leading to their death, this action also triggered a powerful immune response, helping to eliminate the tumors.

In parallel, CAR-T immune cells, trained to target the CD19 protein, expressed by certain cancers and whose production had previously been “boosted » thanks to CRISPR, were reintroduced into the organism of rodents.

Impressive preliminary results

At the end of the follow-up period, the researchers found that all of the specimens who had benefited from the combined approach had survived and their subcutaneous tumors had completely disappeared. In comparison, the survival rate in mice that received CAR-T treatment alone was just 40%.

While more research will be needed before considering clinical trials, these preliminary results appear particularly promising.

Last year, American scientists found that eliminating extra chromosomes from cancer cells, also using CRISPR, could prevent their uncontrolled development.