Researchers from Ben-Gurion University in Be’er Sheva have developed an innovative nanopolymer that targets drugs directly to the blood vessels that feed tumors. As reported by the Israeli site NEWSru.co.il, this new approach has shown promising results in fighting colon cancer metastases. So far, it has been tested only on mice, but plans are underway to begin human trials.

Colon cancer is the third most common cause of cancer-related deaths in the USA, often spreading to the liver. Traditionally, surgery is the main treatment, followed by chemotherapy or immunotherapy if needed. However, these treatments often affect not just the tumors but also healthy cells.

Professor Ayelet David and her team have created a nanopolymer, just 2-5 nanometers in size, which can precisely deliver medication to the tumor-feeding vessels without damaging the surrounding healthy tissue. This polymer has effectively treated liver tumors and metastases in mice. The next step is clinical trials, which will be handled by Israeli biomedical company Vaxil Biotherapeutics.