By Taylor Mixides – Drug Target Review
Scientists at Stanford University have engineered a biomolecule that can specifically remove mucins from cancer cells. This breakthrough could have a significant impact on future cancer therapies.
Cancer cells can elude the body’s immune defences by manipulating a group of molecules known as mucins, which are typically helpful and widespread.
Mucins are proteins covered in sugar that primarily protect the body against physical harm and pathogens. However, cancer cells exploit mucins to support their survival. While the concept of removing mucins from cancer cells seems promising, mucins are present in various forms on all mammalian cells. Therefore, targeting them indiscriminately could lead to unforeseen side effects.