Breakthrough in Cancer Treatment: The Discovery of Peptide D’20
Researchers from Israel and Japan have made a significant advancement in cancer treatment by developing a targeted inhibitor for an enzyme crucial to cancer growth. This collaborative effort involves the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, the Weizmann Institute of Science, and the University of Tokyo.
Targeting MMP7 Enzyme
The research focuses on an enzyme called Matrix Metallopeptidase 7 (MMP7), which aids cancer cells in invading surrounding tissues. Developing a drug to block MMP7 without affecting other enzymes has been challenging due to structural similarities. However, a new peptide named D’20 shows promise in specifically targeting MMP7.
Innovative Discovery Method
The team, led by Professor Norman Metanis, PhD student Hiba Ghareeb, Professor Irit Sagi, and Professor Hiroaki Suga, used a method called Mirror-Image Random Nonstandard Peptide Integrated Discovery (MI-RaPID) to identify macrocyclic peptides that bind precisely to MMP7.
Unique Properties of D’20
D’20 is a mirror-image peptide made of twelve D-amino acids, ensuring stability and specificity. It effectively blocks MMP7, inhibiting pancreatic cancer cell movement while allowing normal cell growth. D’20 remains stable in human blood and digestive conditions, making it a promising candidate for future therapies.
Future Implications
If successful in human trials, D’20 could lead to more precise cancer treatments with fewer side effects. The MI-RaPID technology may also facilitate the development of other specific peptide-based treatments.
Doubts Revealed
Peptide -: A peptide is a small chain of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. In this context, peptides can be used to help fight diseases like cancer.
MMP7 -: MMP7 is an enzyme that helps cancer cells grow and spread. By targeting and stopping MMP7, scientists hope to slow down or stop cancer.
Hebrew University of Jerusalem -: This is a famous university in Israel where many scientists and researchers work on important projects, like finding new ways to fight cancer.
Weizmann Institute -: The Weizmann Institute is a research institute in Israel known for its scientific research and discoveries. It is involved in developing new treatments for diseases.
University of Tokyo -: The University of Tokyo is a top university in Japan where scientists and researchers study many subjects, including medicine and technology.
MI-RaPID technology -: MI-RaPID is a special technology used to create peptides that can target specific enzymes, like MMP7, without affecting other parts of the body.
Pancreatic cancer -: Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the pancreas, an organ in the body that helps with digestion. It is known to be very aggressive and hard to treat.