New fluorescent particles from palm fruit waste can now target cancer cells
Thai researchers have successfully invented a new treatment for colon cancer with the use of fluorescent carbon dots created from polymers derived through empty bunches of the palm fruit.
Deputy government spokesperson Rachada Dhnadirek said on Friday that the innovation was created via cooperation between Mahidol University’s Faculty of Engineering and the National Science and Technology Development Agency's National Nanotechnology Centre.
These fluorescent carbon particles have been designed to deliver targeted chemotherapy to only cancer cells, thus cutting down on side effects and severity.
“The luminescent carbon particles will also make it easier for medical staff to provide follow-up treatment,” she said.
This innovation should help boost the rate of survival among colon cancer patients, and will also be cheaper as it cuts down on the need to import expensive drugs, she said.
“This innovation is also in line with the bio-circular-green [BCG] economy model and aims to help further develop Thailand’s healthcare industry,” she added.
Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in Thailand. Nearly 200,000 people died from the disease in 2020 and the five most common in Thailand are breast, lung, colon, liver and cervical cancer.
Related stories:
