Scientists Discovered a 'Killer Code' for Cancer in Human Cells

In two recent studies, scientists detailed a mechanism that, when used correctly, can destroy cancer cells and deprive them of the ability to develop resistance to therapy. This mechanism is similar to that on which chemotherapy is based, but allows for the avoidance of its inherent negative side effects.

In last year's study, a group of scientists led by Marcus Peter, a professor of cancer metabolism at the Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern University in Chicago, discovered that certain molecules of human RNA can not only destroy malignant cells but also prevent them from developing resistance to treatment. As Professor Peter explained at the time, RNA molecules destroy tumor cells while simultaneously eliminating the genes responsible for the survival of cancer. According to the scientist, "it's like committing suicide while simultaneously stabbing yourself with a knife, shooting yourself, and jumping off the roof of a high-rise building. The chances of survival are zero."

However, the very mechanism that forces malignant cells to "commit suicide" remained unknown until recently. In two new studies, Professor Peter and his team discovered a genetic code embedded in the RNA and microRNA of every cell in the human body. This is believed to be responsible for the ability of cancer cells to self-destruct.

Chemotherapy can also activate toxic RNA and microRNA molecules, but, as the researchers admit, they intend to use this mechanism in such a way as to avoid the negative consequences of "chemotherapy." The first of the two studies was published in the scientific journal eLIfe; in the explanatory article, the scientists described how large RNAs can be transformed into small, toxic ones. The second study, explaining how these small RNA molecules use the "killer code" to destroy tumor cells, was published in Nature Communications.

How to Activate the 'Killer Code' Without Chemotherapy

In last year's study, the team of scientists led by Professor Peter identified a sequence of six nucleotides contained in small RNAs that make them toxic to cancer cells. A nucleotide is a basic structural element and building block for DNA and RNA. In one of the recent tests, the scientists found that about 3% of all large ribonucleic acids can be "split" into small parts that subsequently behave like toxic microRNAs and can destroy malignant cells.

In the second experiment, the scientists studied over four thousand different combinations of nucleotides based on the six originals in an attempt to find the deadliest, most toxic to cancer cells. "Based on the data we obtained from these two studies, we can create artificial microRNAs that have a much greater destructive power against tumors than those created by nature itself," says Professor Peter. "Now we simply must, using the new information, develop a new type of anti-cancer therapy."

"Now that we know the 'killer code,' we can activate the self-destruct mechanism of tumor cells without resorting to aggressive chemotherapy and without interfering with the human genome," continues the professor. "We can use small RNAs directly, introducing them into cells and triggering the destruction mode."

A Revolutionary Way to Fight Cancer

Although chemotherapy can also activate toxic RNAs, it often causes side effects, including recurrent cancer, as the approach it uses is based on changes in genes, explains the professor. However, in recent studies, scientists have discovered a "less dangerous weapon," and their finding may help avoid the negative impact of "chemotherapy."

"We did not set out to develop a new artificial toxic substance," says Marcus Peter. "We wanted to use a mechanism that nature itself created." Since cancer cells cannot adapt to toxic RNAs, the results of the study may one day lead to the creation of a new highly effective method for combating oncological diseases. However, the scientists warn that it may take years before such a treatment becomes a reality.