Researchers of Kent State University, Summa Health System and IC-MedTech have developed a drug based on the pharmacologic properties of Liquid Crystal Pharmaceuticals (LCP) that can fight cancer and other diseases. Liquid crystals are substances that flow like liquid, but maintain the ordered structure characteristic of crystalline solids. Organic substances like DNA, lipids of cellular membranes and proteins are examples of lyotropic liquid crystals.
LCPs are a class of lyotropic liquid crystals that represent novel drug candidates for the treatment of a wide range of diseases. Representatives of this research project have filed two patents, one for a new LCP-based anti-tumour drug called Tolecine and another for a new formulation that combines Tolecine with another LCP, Apatone.
Tolecine is an anti-tumour LCP that has antiviral and antibacterial properties. It counteracts abnormal cell growth in a tissue or organ. It has been found to be a better cure for herpes than the current medicines available. Apatone is a new drug effective for late stage prostrate cancer.
Unlike chemotherapy drugs, Tolecine and Apatone have low toxicity. They are activated by inflammations that occur in and around tumour cells, sparing the healthy cells.
Image: rsphysse
Source: tfot
