In the US they have found that a drug which attaches to tumours can be activated by waves of light. This study has suggested that particular areas can be targeted without damaging surrounding tissues.
The National Cancer Institute used an antibody which is complementary to the surface proteins of the tumour. IR700 is a light receptive substance which is activated by infra-red light. This chemical was attached to the antibody and used on mice with inserted tumours in an environment with IR light. Compared to the control group, the tumour volume was significantly reduced.
Cancer Research UK reported that photo-dynamic therapy or using antibodies has been successful in treating cancers so combining the treatments provides a promising answer.
It is important to consider that researchers are still at the animal testing stage and therefore we cannot be certain of how this treatment will affect humans.
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