London - Cancer cells can be made to self-destruct by injecting them with salt, say scientists.
They have created a molecule that can carry particles of sodium and chlorine called ions into cancer cells. The two elements make up salt.
Synthetic ion transporters have been created before but this is the first time researchers have demonstrated how an influx of salt into a cell triggers its death.
The process, described this week in the journal Nature Chemistry, could point the way to new anti-cancer drugs.
Researchers from the University of Southampton are part of an international team that has developed the molecule.
Study co-author Professor Philip Gale, from the university, said: “This work shows how chloride transporters can work with sodium channels in cell membranes to cause an influx of salt into a cell.
“We found we can trigger cell death with salt.”
Cells in the body work hard to maintain a stable internal balance of ions. Disruption of this delicate balance can lead to apoptosis, a mechanism the body uses to rid itself of damaged or dangerous cells.
It is hoped that cancer cells can be destroyed by triggering this self-destruct sequence. - Daily Mail