Genetically engineered algae kills 90% of cancer cells without harming healthy cells

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in science on (#VZJ3)
Algae has been genetically engineered to kill cancer cells without harming healthy cells. The algae nanoparticles, created by scientists in Australia, were found to kill 90% of cancer cells in cultured human cells. The algae was also successful at killing cancer in mice with tumours.

"By genetically engineering diatom algae - tiny, unicellular, photosynthesising algae with a skeleton made of nanoporous silica, we are able to produce an antibody-binding protein on the surface of their shells. Anti-cancer chemotherapeutic drugs are often toxic to normal tissues. [...]To minimise the off-target toxicity, the drugs can be hidden inside the antibody-coated nanoparticles. The antibody binds only to molecules found on cancer cells, thus delivering the toxic drug specifically to the target cells."

Re: Made in Australia (Score: 1)

by billshooterofbul@pipedot.org on 2015-11-30 19:20 (#W794)

Probably repeating what you already know, but I think he meant the TPP ( https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trans-Pacific_Partnership). I haven't heard of claims that it would force inventions /patents to be transferred to the US. But there is a rather concerning Intellectual property clause in the agreement, and something that would reduce the ability of countries to continue to get prescription medicine at their current low prices ( as opposed to the outrageous prices we pay in the US ). I'm guessing that some people might take that to mean that US pharmaceuticals could also sue for patent violations? Which might lead to the US companies owning the new invention?

But yeah, some snark too.

Personally, I'm not sure where I stand on that trade deal. I haven't reviewed it in depth.
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