Health

Breakthrough in Cancer Treatment: DNA Origami Nanorobots Precisely Target and Kill Cancer Cells in Mice

Published

11 months ago

July 3, 2024

editor

By Emmanuel Ogbodo

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet in Sweden have achieved a significant breakthrough in cancer treatment by creating nanorobots using “DNA origami” that can precisely target and kill cancer cells in mice. Detailed in the prestigious journal Nature Nanotechnology, these tiny robots offer a promising new direction for cancer treatment, potentially revolutionizing how the disease is managed.

The nanobots are designed to be pH-sensitive and function autonomously, a crucial feature that enhances their targeting capability. They contain six cytotoxic ligands that are hidden under normal conditions but become active in the acidic environment of cancerous tissues. This innovative targeting mechanism allows the nanobots to induce cell death in cancer cells while sparing healthy ones, thereby minimizing collateral damage and reducing side effects typically associated with conventional cancer treatments.

Dr. Björn Högberg, the lead study author, highlights the potential of these nanorobots, stating, “This hexagonal nanopattern of peptides becomes a lethal weapon… To get around this problem, we have hidden the weapon inside a nanostructure built from DNA.” The biocompatibility of the nanobots allows them to move through the body without causing adverse reactions. They travel through the bloodstream, detect the acidic pH of tumors, and release agents that destroy cancer cells with high precision.

In mouse trials, the nanobots reduced tumor growth by up to 70%, demonstrating their significant potential for human treatment. However, researchers caution that further studies are needed to ensure the technology’s stability and effectiveness in humans. These trials will focus on optimizing the nanobots’ design, ensuring long-term safety, and confirming their efficacy in more complex biological environments.

The DNA origami nanobots could revolutionize cancer treatment by offering more targeted and less harmful therapies, potentially leading to more effective treatments and fewer side effects. This breakthrough supports futurist Raymond Kurzweil’s predictions about advanced nanotechnologies extending human lifespan and surpassing biological limitations.

Kurzweil has long advocated for the development of nanotechnologies that can intervene at the cellular level, repairing and enhancing biological functions. The success of DNA origami nanobots in preclinical trials marks a significant step toward realizing these futuristic visions. As research progresses, the hope is that such technologies will not only treat but also prevent diseases, significantly improving the quality of life and longevity.

The research team at Karolinska Institutet remains optimistic about the future applications of their work. They are now focusing on refining the nanobots’ design for greater stability and effectiveness in human trials. Collaborations with medical institutions and biotech companies are expected to accelerate the transition from laboratory research to clinical use.

Health

FG Unveils Zinc Rich Rice to Combat Malnutrition

Published

3 weeks ago

April 30, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Ifeoluwa Odunayo

The Federal Government has launched two new rice varieties, FARO 71 and FARO 72, in a bold move to fight malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies among vulnerable groups, particularly women and children.

Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, unveiled the fortified rice in Abuja, highlighting its potential to improve health outcomes while boosting food security.

Developed in collaboration with HarvestPlus and the National Cereals Research Institute, the rice varieties are enriched with zinc, supplying up to 40 percent of the daily recommended intake.

Aside from their nutritional benefits, FARO 71 and FARO 72 are designed to deliver high yields, resist pests, and withstand drought — qualities expected to appeal to farmers and improve national productivity.

With Nigeria reportedly losing $1.5 billion annually to nutrient deficiencies, the government hopes these fortified staples will play a critical role in reversing the trend and promoting public health through agriculture.

Health

FG Boosts Nursing Enrollment to 115,000 to Bridge Healthcare Gap

Published

3 weeks ago

April 28, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Ifeoluwa Odunayo

In a major move to tackle Nigeria’s growing healthcare workforce shortage, the Federal Government has increased the annual enrollment of nursing students from 28,000 to 115,000.

The announcement was made on April 28, 2025, by the Federal Ministry of Education, highlighting the government’s commitment to strengthening the healthcare and education sectors under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The surge, surpassing the original target of 110,000 students, is the result of collaboration between the Ministries of Education and Health & Social Welfare.

The milestone was achieved thanks to the leadership of Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, and support from industry experts, the Nigerian Council of Nurses and Midwifery, and teaching hospitals.

Health

Battle Against Malaria Gains New Fire

Published

3 weeks ago

April 28, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Oso Abidemi

Determined to stamp out malaria, major health organizations stormed the University of Lagos with a sweeping campaign of education, free testing, and drug distribution.

Themed “Malaria Ends with Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite,” the outreach united Green Life Pharmaceuticals, Green Life Hospital, Seagreen Pharmaceutical, and Clearline HMO in a powerful push to fight the disease that continues to ravage communities across Nigeria.

Hundreds of students and residents turned up for free malaria tests, prevention kits, and vital health education. Organizers stressed the urgent need for community action, with a special focus on empowering young people to drive change.

Peter Nwosu, Executive Director of Green Life Pharmaceuticals, described the campaign as more than a symbolic gesture.

“We are here not just to mark a day but to make a real difference,” he declared, calling for sustained efforts against the deadly scourge.

Speaking for Clearline HMO, Dr. Oghenerukevwe Peretomode warned that climate change is fueling malaria through flooding and rising temperatures.

She called for stronger government support, innovation, and personal responsibility, urging Nigerians to use treated nets and maintain clean surroundings.

Chris Ikeagu, General Manager of Green Life Hospital, said the choice of UNILAG was deliberate.

“Youth are the key to this battle. They will take the message home,” he said, stressing that early detection and treatment remain vital weapons in the fight.

The event stood as a fresh rallying call for Nigerians to take the malaria fight personally, seriously, and urgently.