A three-drug treatment for lung cancer that could significantly reduce tumour growth and limit cancer spread is being explored by researchers at the University of Malta.
Early laboratory results are showing encouraging progress, according to scientists from the university’s Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics.
The treatment uses a combination of three drugs, two of which are used in gene therapy to target and modify specific cancer-associated genes. This approach aims to lower the production of proteins responsible for lung cancer.
If successful, the treatment could not only shrink tumours but also lower the risk of the cancer spreading to other organs.
“We are also trying to reduce side effects as much as possible, by ensuring that the drug combination only has an effect on tumour cells when used at the correct doses,” explained Dr Vanessa Petroni Magri, who is leading the research along with Prof. Anthony Fenech.
PhD student …