Nanomaterial found to reduce cancer stem cells in rats, Chinese study finds

Scientists say they developed nanoparticles with good biocompatibility to target and eliminate the cells. The treatment works by blocking the replication process of the cancer stem cells, according to co-author. — SCMP

Chinese scientists say they have developed a smart nanomaterial that significantly reduced the number of cancer stem cells in rats in a recent study.

Therapies that can selectively eliminate cancer cells mean less damage to a patient’s healthy cells. But existing treatments cannot specifically target cancer stem cells (CSCs), which can divide and renew – meaning they can duplicate or develop into other types of cancer cells.