Health

Injectable, radioactive gel synergizes with chemotherapy to shrink pancreatic tumors

Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest types of cancer—in the U.S., it is estimated that over 88 percent of people will die from the disease within five years of their diagnosis.

Published

2 years ago

December 30, 2022

Daily News Staff

Preclinical study led to unprecedented results in mouse models

Credit: Chilkoti lab
The preclinical treatment regimen evaluated in this study. The radioactive biopolymer (131I-ELP, where ELP stands for elastin-like polypeptide) is injected into the pancreatic tumor, and the radiosensitizing chemotherapeutic drug paclitaxel is delivered systemically.
*« Injectable, radioactive gel synergizes with chemotherapy to shrink pancreatic tumors*

Newswise — Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest types of cancer—in the U.S., it is estimated that over 88 percent of people will die from the disease within five years of their diagnosis. One reason for this bleak prognosis is that the majority of pancreatic cancers are diagnosed after the disease has already spread, or metastasized, to other parts of the body. Another reason is that pancreatic cancers are particularly challenging to treat, as these tumors are often resistant to standard anti-cancer drugs.

NIBIB-funded researchers are developing a new method to treat this lethal disease. Their study, recently published in Nature Biomedical Engineering, combined an injectable radioactive gel with systemic chemotherapy in multiple mouse models of pancreatic cancer. The treatment resulted in tumor regression in all their evaluated models, an unprecedented result for this genetically diverse and aggressive type of cancer.

“Radiation treatments are typically delivered externally, which exposes healthy tissue to radiation and limits the dose that a tumor receives, ultimately limiting its effectiveness,” said David Rampulla, Ph.D., director of the division of Discovery Science & Technology at NIBIB. “The radioactive biomaterial investigated in this preclinical study can be injected directly into the tumor, allowing for a localized approach. What’s more, this biodegradable biomaterial allows for higher cumulative radiation doses than other implantable radiation treatments.”

Brachytherapy—where a radiation source is placed inside the body—can be used to treat several different types of cancer. Early-stage prostate cancer, for example, can be treated with ‘seed’ brachytherapy, where many tiny metal seeds that contain a radioactive substance are implanted into the prostate. While these seeds can limit healthy tissues’ exposure to radiation, their metal casing prevents the use of potent radiation particles, known as alpha and beta emitters, which are more effective at killing cancer cells. Additionally, due to their small size, around 100 seeds are typically needed for prostate cancer treatment (with each individual seed requiring an injection). To date, brachytherapy approaches have not improved clinical outcomes among patients with pancreatic cancer.

The current study is investigating a new type of brachytherapy. Instead of delivering radiation using a metal seed or a catheter, the study authors are investigating the use of a radioactive biopolymer that is injected directly into the tumor. In addition to being biodegradable, the biopolymer has a unique property—it has been engineered to transition from a liquid at room temperature to a gel-like state when warmed to body temperature. As the biopolymer solidifies, it stays within the tumor, and can’t easily spread into surrounding healthy tissues.

“Our biopolymer is derived from elastin, an abundant protein that it is found in the connective tissues throughout our bodies,” explained first author Jeff Schaal, Ph.D., who conducted this work at Duke University. “By tinkering with the composition of this biopolymer, we can control the exact temperature where it transitions from a liquid to a gel. And because we’re not encasing the radioactive polymer within a protective metal seed, we can use different—and more potent—isotopes, allowing us to deliver a higher radiation dose than conventional seed brachytherapy.”

The radioactive isotope used in this proof-of-concept treatment is iodine-131 (or I-131), which releases high-energy particles known as beta particles. Beta particles cause DNA damage and kill irradiated cells, but they can’t travel very far—only a few millimeters (so off-target toxicity is limited). I-131 has been used to treat thyroid cancer for decades and has a well-established safety profile, said Schaal.

Pancreatic cancer is sometimes treated with a combination of radiation and specific chemotherapeutic agents that make the radiation more effective. These ‘radiosensitizing’ drugs work by prolonging the cell’s replication process—specifically when its DNA is exposed, Schaal explained. The exposed DNA is more sensitive to radiation and is more likely to be irreparably damaged by it, which ultimately results in cell death.

In combination with a radiosensitizing chemotherapeutic known as paclitaxel, the study authors evaluated their radioactive biopolymer in several different pancreatic cancer models, carefully selected to reflect different aspects of pancreatic cancer (e.g., common mutations, tumor characteristics, tumor density, or treatment resistance). Among all the models tested, nearly every mouse responded, meaning the tumors either shrunk or completely vanished. “The response rates that we saw in our models were unprecedented,” said Schaal. “After a thorough review of the literature, we have yet to find another treatment regimen that demonstrates such a robust response in multiple and genetically diverse models of pancreatic cancer.” Further, in some mice, the tumors never returned during the course of the study.

When the study authors evaluated a current clinical treatment regimen—paclitaxel plus external beam radiation—the response rates weren’t nearly as impressive: Tumor growth rate was only inhibited, instead of tumors shrinking or vanishing. “Unlike external beam radiation, which is given in short bursts, our brachytherapy approach delivers radiation continuously,” explained Schaal. “We found that this continuous beta-particle radiation altered the microenvironment of the tumor and allowed paclitaxel to better penetrate into the tumor core, allowing for a synergistic therapeutic effect.”

Importantly, the researchers did not observe any acute toxicity issues during the course of their study, with negligible amounts of radioactivity accumulating in critical organs in the mice. They have previously reported that their radioactive biopolymer safely biodegrades—with the half-life of the gel (roughly 95 days) far outlasting the half-life of I-131 (roughly eight days).

The authors did not evaluate their treatment in metastatic disease, but the nature of their approach would allow for biopolymer injections in multiple locations, such as tumor masses in other organs. And while this study remains in the preclinical stage, the study authors are working to move this treatment forward. “Our group has been partnering with clinical researchers to develop and optimize our system for endoscope-guided delivery in a larger animal model,” said senior author Ashutosh Chilkoti, Ph.D., a professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Duke University. “The challenge however of taking this—or any new treatment—to patients is finding the support to take it through clinical trials.”

This study was supported by a grant from NIBIB (R01EB000188) and a grant from the National Cancer Institute (NCI; grant R35CA197616).

This Science Highlight describes a basic research finding. Basic research increases our understanding of human behavior and biology, which is foundational to advancing new and better ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat disease. Science is an unpredictable and incremental process—each research advance builds on past discoveries, often in unexpected ways. Most clinical advances would not be possible without the knowledge of fundamental basic research.

Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36261625/

Source: National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering

Author

Daily News Staff

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Lifestyle

Plastic Surgeons of America Transforms Patient-Surgeon Connections

Published

21 hours ago

September 27, 2024

Daily News Staff

Dr. Heather Levites of LevityLifts Joins PSofA, Bringing Her Expertise to the Platform

RALEIGH, N.C., Sept. 25, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Plastic Surgeons of America (PSofA), a new product from Hyperspace Ventures, is set to revolutionize the plastic surgery industry with its cutting-edge platform designed to enhance the way patients find and connect with leading surgeons. Utilizing an advanced matching algorithm and artificial intelligence, PSofA streamlines the process for individuals seeking quality surgical care.

The platform was built by Hyperspace Ventures, a North Carolina-founded firm with a history of building successful tech products. PSofA is available on all devices and hosts a plethora of valuable features for the patient and surgeon:

For Patients

Find top plastic surgeons by procedure and location and match with confidence
Browse individual surgeon profiles in-depth and read trusted reviews
Book a consult seamlessly and receive expert in-person care

For Surgeons

Claim a profile and open up the largest channel for new patients
Promote their personal brand and showcase their work to millions
Drive new leads with automated consultation scheduling and EMR integration

Dr. Heather Levites, a Raleigh-based Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and founder of LevityLifts, joins PSofA with an extensive background in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery. She holds degrees from MIT and Stony Brook University and trained at Duke University. Her addition underscores PSofA’s commitment to making top-tier professionals available to patients.

“Plastic Surgeons of America represents a significant leap forward in patient-surgeon interactions,” said Dr. Levites. “This platform not only empowers patients with immediate access to leading surgeons but also ensures they receive personalized and high-quality care. I am proud to be part of this innovative initiative.”

For more information visit plasticsurgeonsofamerica.com.

About Plastic Surgeons of America

Plastic Surgeons of America is designed to enhance the connection between patients and plastic surgeons. PSofA offers a streamlined and efficient way for individuals to confidently find qualified plastic surgeons, ensuring a higher standard of care and patient satisfaction.

About Hyperspace Ventures

Hyperspace Ventures is a North Carolina-founded software design, development, and venture capital firm. Their successes include the tennis and pickleball e-learning platform TopCourt and productivity tool Space Dial. Find them at hyperspaceventures.com.

About Dr. Heather Levites
Dr. Heather Levites is the founder of LevityLifts and a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon with a specialty in advanced cosmetic surgery. She has authored multiple peer-reviewed publications and co-founded “The Resident Review” podcast. Find her at levitylifts.com.

SOURCE Hyperspace Ventures; Plastic Surgeons of America

Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.

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health and wellness

Flex Continues to Offer Non-Toxic Solutions as FDA Investigates Toxic Metals in Menstrual Products

Published

1 day ago

September 27, 2024

Dolores Raphael

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 25, 2024 /PRNewswire/ —

Flex, a pioneer in sustainable period care, has announced that its menstrual discs and cups are confirmed to be free from harmful substances, including PFAS (forever chemicals), lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury. This announcement comes in the wake of the FDA’s recent investigation into the presence of toxic metals in tampons, sparking urgent conversations about the safety and regulation of menstrual health products.

non-toxic period care — Flex, a leader in sustainable period care, announced today that independent third-party lab testing has confirmed all Flex menstrual discs and cups are free from harmful PFAS (forever chemicals), lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury.

Despite the tampon’s invention dating back to 1931, it wasn’t until now that these essential items have been subjected to rigorous testing for harmful chemicals. The recent findings of toxic metals in some tampons have heightened safety concerns, leaving many consumers wondering about the long-term health impacts of using these products.

In the midst of this crisis, a growing number of consumers are questioning, “What’s safe?” While some have transitioned to alternatives like organic tampons, period underwear, and natural pads, studies show that toxic chemicals are also finding their way into these products.

“We face a critical gap in research regarding whether toxins in tampons can be absorbed through the vaginal wall,” said Lauren Wang, founder and CEO of Flex. “This raises an essential question: should period product manufacturers be responsible for proving their safety, or is it up to the consumers to prove there’s harm?”

Flex introduced its innovative disposable menstrual disc in 2016, positioning it as a non-toxic, body-safe alternative to traditional tampons. Since launch, over 150 million discs have been sold without any reported cases of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). With independent lab results verifying the absence of harmful metals and PFAS, Flex solidifies its status as the leading disc and cup brand in the U.S.

As concerns about chemical safety continue to rise, it remains alarming that fewer than 3% of American women are aware of Flex’s offerings. The company is dedicated to increasing awareness around safe, non-toxic period care options.

About The Flex Co.

Flex is recognized as the #1 sustainable period care brand in the U.S., innovating the menstrual disc category in 2016. Its award-winning portfolio is available in over 30,000 retail stores, including major retailers such as Walmart, Target, and CVS. Headquartered in Venice, California, Flex is FDA-registered and the sole designer of its disc and cup products, manufactured in the U.S. and Canada. To learn more about Flex’s commitment to safe menstrual health, visit flexfits.com.

Stay informed and empowered in your period care choices with Flex!

SOURCE The Flex Company

Author

Dolores Raphael

Dolores Raphael is a dedicated writer and blogger focused on health, fitness, and everyday living. She shares practical tips and inspiring insights to help others lead a balanced and vibrant lifestyle. one of her passions is Pickleball. View all posts blogger/ writer

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Lifestyle

Here’s how to maintain healthy smartphone habits

Published

3 days ago

September 25, 2024

The Conversation

smartphone — Do you have a healthy relationship with your phone? Morsa Images/DigitalVision via Getty Images

Shelia R. Cotten, Clemson University

What is the first thing you do in the morning after you awaken? Many people immediately check their phones for notifications of messages, alerts and social media updates by their social ties.

Ninety-seven percent of U.S. adults report owning a cellphone, with 90% reporting that they own a smartphone.

While some researchers and media outlets portray phone use as detrimental, the reality is that the effects of technology use, including phones, vary depending on multiple factors. These include the amount, type, timing and purpose of that use. What is best for one group may not be best for another when thinking about technology use.

As a researcher who studies technology use and quality of life, I can offer some advice to hopefully help you thrive in a phone-saturated world. Some people may struggle with how to effectively use smartphones in their daily lives. And many people use their phones more than they think they do or more than they would like at times.

1. Monitor your use on a weekly basis

If the hours per day are increasing, think about why this is the case and whether this increased use is helping or hurting your everyday activities. An aspect of digital literacy is understanding your usage patterns.

2. Consider how you can use these devices to make your life easier

Using a smartphone can help people access online information, schedule appointments, obtain directions, communicate through a variety of mechanisms and potentially be in constant contact with their social ties.

This availability and access to information and social ties can be beneficial and help people juggle work and family responsibilities. However, it may also be related to work intensification, information overload, decreased well-being and the blurring of work/nonwork boundaries.

Weighing the pros and cons of use may help you understand when your phone use is beneficial versus detrimental.

3. Silence nonessential notifications and alerts

Do you really need to know that an old friend from high school messaged you on Facebook at that particular moment?

4. Select particular times during the day for social media

Be deliberate about when you allow yourself to use your phone for social media and other activities. Knowing these times each day may help you concentrate as well as help you to use your phone in more useful and productive ways.

A person laying in bed looking at a phone — This is a good way to disrupt your sleep. Sergey Mironov/Moment via Getty Images

5. Avoid phone use at bedtime

Don’t look at your phone last thing before going to sleep or first thing when you awaken. Have you ever checked email one last time before going to sleep, only to find a message that gets your mind racing and ends up impeding your rest?

6. Choose when not to use your phone

Set times and situations when you are not going to use your phone.

Some of my research has shown that using your phone when in the presence of others who are not using devices, particularly older adults, can be perceived as rude, deter communication and induce distress. My colleagues and I termed this situation the physical-digital divide.

7. Find your own phone-use balance

Don’t compare yourself with others in terms of amount of use but be cognizant of when your use is beneficial versus perhaps leading you to feel stressed or distracted.

8. Moderate phone-as-distraction

Using your phone as a distraction is OK, but do it in moderation. If you find yourself constantly turning to your phone when you are bored or working on something that is hard, try to find ways to maintain your focus and overcome the challenges you are experiencing.

a man slouching in an office chair in front of a computer monitor looks at his phone — Using your phone as a distraction isn’t necessarily bad – if you don’t overdo it. Aja Koska/E+ via Getty Images

9. Set boundaries

Let your immediate social ties know that you are not going to be checking your phone constantly. While people often expect immediate responses when they message others, the reality is that the majority of messages do not need an immediate response.

10. Be a savvy consumer of online information

This is not exclusive to phones, but it is relevant given the proportion of people who report using their mobile phones and other digital devices to access news and social media. In the era of mis- and disinformation, being critical of information found online is a necessity.

These suggestions can help you to be more cognizant of how much you are using your phone as well as the reasons you are using it. It’s important for your well-being to be a critical consumer of technology and the information you glean from using your devices, particularly your ever-present mobile phone.

Shelia R. Cotten, Provost’s Distinuished Professor of Sociology, Anthropology and Criminal Justice and Communication, Clemson University

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.