A major study from RMIT University has revealed that a new gold-based drug can significantly slow tumour growth in animals and target cancer cells more selectively than standard chemotherapy drugs.
The research, published in the European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, demonstrates the potential of gold compounds as a promising alternative to platinum-based cancer treatments.
The study found that the new gold-based compound is 27 times more potent against cervical cancer cells in laboratory tests compared to cisplatin, a commonly used chemotherapy drug.
Additionally, it proved 3.5 times more effective against prostate cancer cells and 7.5 times more effective against fibrosarcoma cells.
In mice studies, the gold compound reduced cervical cancer tumour growth by an impressive 82 per cent, significantly outperforming cisplatin, which only achieved a 29 per cent reduction.
Distinguished Professor Suresh Bhargava AM, project lead at RMIT, emphasised the significance of these findings: “These newly synthesised compounds demonstrate remarkable anticancer potential, outperforming current treatments in a number of significant aspects including their selectivity in targeting cancer cells.”
The gold compound’s effectiveness stems from its ability to interact with thioredoxin reductase, an enzyme abundant in cancer cells.
By blocking this protein’s activity, the compound effectively shuts down cancer cells before they can multiply or develop drug resistance.
This targeted approach minimises the toxic side effects often associated with platinum-based drugs like cisplatin, which can damage both healthy and cancerous cells.
Professor Magdalena Plebanski, project co-lead, highlighted another crucial aspect of the compound’s efficacy.
In zebrafish studies, it demonstrated the ability to stop the formation of new blood vessels that tumours need to grow, a process known as anti-angiogenesis.
This dual-action mechanism proved effective against various cancer cell types, including ovarian cancer cells known for developing resistance to cisplatin.
While human trials are still in the future, the research team is encouraged by these results.
The gold-based compound is now protected by a US patent and is ready for further development towards potential clinical application.
This research not only opens new avenues for cancer treatment but also builds on the historical use of gold in medicine, particularly in Indian Ayurvedic treatments.
As gold-based cancer treatments gain global traction, this study provides crucial scientific validation for gold’s therapeutic potential.
The project, supported by a $2 million Australia-India Strategic Research Fund grant, represents a collaborative effort between RMIT University and the Indian Institute of Chemical Technology in Hyderabad.
This international cooperation, along with industry support from companies like ABC Bullion and Agnico Eagle Mines, underscores the global significance of this research in addressing one of the world’s most pressing health challenges.
