Killing Brain Tumors From Within - 'Trojan Horse' Approach

Professor Levitski and his team of researchers at the University of Jerusalem have devised a method in which cancerous cells are targeted and told to "committ suicide." The primary target of this new treatment is Epidermal Growth Factor Receptors(EGFRs). Cancerous cells proliferate due to an abornally high number of Epidermal Growth Factors (EGFs) and therefore can be targeted without having an effect on normal cells. The method which has been proven to work in mice consists of taking a molecule of RNA attached to an EGF and delivering it to cells with increased numbers of EGFRs (the cancerous cells). The RNA is taken in by the cancer cells causes failure of the genetic machinery inside the cells and thus, kills the cell. Further testing is being planned in a clinical setting.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2006/10/061025085236.htm