Russian scientists develop new oral nanotherapy for melanoma

Scientists from the Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University (SPbPU) have developed a new oral drug formulation for melanoma based on nanoparticles carrying anti-cancer compounds, according to the university’s portal. 

Melanoma is one of the most aggressive forms of cancer and is known for its high ability to spread. Traditional chemotherapy destroys cancer cells but often damages healthy tissue, leading to severe side effects. Targeted therapy offers a safer alternative, as it is designed to act mainly on tumour cells.

The SPbPU research team focused on solving one of the key challenges of oral cancer treatment – protecting active drug compounds as they pass through the harsh environment of the gastrointestinal tract. Many targeted medicines lose their effectiveness before reaching the tumour.

The source states the scientists created nanoparticles from biocompatible and biodegradable materials such as gelatin and chitosan. These nanoparticles encapsulate the anti-cancer compound, preserving its structure and enabling effective delivery after oral administration.

Experiments showed that tumour growth was reduced by 88–95 per cent compared to a control group. Researchers also confirmed that the nanoparticles accumulated in the digestive system long enough to ensure efficient absorption.

Safety tests, including organ tissue analysis and blood studies, revealed no serious side effects. According to the authors, the new approach could open the door to the development of safe and effective oral targeted therapies for cancer in the future.

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