Scientists have found a simple and versatile way to produce artificial anticancer molecules that mimic the properties of one of the body's natural defense mechanisms. A team of British chemists was able to obtain molecules that resemble peptides in their structure, which are naturally produced by the body to protect against cancer and other diseases.
A study published in the journal Nature Chemistry, showed that the molecules obtained in the laboratory are effective against cancer cells of the colon. The study was conducted by the University of Warwick in conjunction with the Institute for Cancer Therapy in Bradford (UK).
Previously, the production of artificial peptides in large quantities was time consuming and expensive. However, the new process takes only a few minutes in the laboratory and does not require the use of expensive equipment. In addition, natural peptides, which are used as medicines, do not have time to fulfill their mission, as they are quickly neutralized by the biochemical defense mechanisms of the body, writes the publication PhysOrg.
A new method of self-assembly of peptides with high stability solves this problem. Peptides synthesized by scientists at the University of Warwick have a spiral shape similar to that of natural peptides.
So scientists describe the process of self-assembly of artificial peptides:
Organic matter, an amino alcohol derivative and picoline, when mixed with ferric chloride in a solvent that serves water or methanol, form strong bonds that form a helix. This is facilitated by thermodynamic conditions. Assembly instructions are written in the chemicals themselves. After removal of the solvent, peptide simulators remain in the form of crystals.
Scientists note that before the start of clinical trials of artificially created peptides, additional research will be required. The first tests showed a very low toxicity of these peptides against bacteria.
The article is based on materials .
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