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UP researchers working on potentially affordable cancer treatment
UP researchers working on potentially affordable cancer treatment
By Sonny Daanoy
A scientist from the University of the Philippines-Diliman’s College of Science (UPD-CS) expressed optimism that the potential cancer cure they are developing will be affordable once it is made available to the public.
UPD-CS Science Research Specialist John Alfon Francisco hopes that the potential results of their research will become cost-friendly for the benefit of the Filipino people.
"I am not completely sure about its price once it's available in the market," Francisco said in an exclusive interview with Manila Bulletin.
"But I hope it will be much cheaper since the compounds can be produced locally," he added in a mix of English and Filipino.
Francisco and his colleague have developed a potentially ground-breaking idea that holds the potential to produce a cancer cure from a compound originally used in the production of pesticides and fish poison.
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Initially, doubts may arise because "deguelin," a derivative of rotenone, is a compound known for its negative effects on the human body due to its original usage.
"So, since deguelin is already known as a fish poison, researchers have identified how it specifically affects at the molecular level (specific protein/biochemical pathway). The target protein of deguelin is usually present in cancer cells," Francisco said.
"That's why they thought of trying it on cancer," he added.
However, in the initial tests, scientists observed negative effects on the human body.
"So, the solution is to alter the structure of deguelin and check for any improvement," he said.
Expanding possibility
As the basis of the study reveals, the compound deguelin targets similar proteins found in cancer cells. Scientists are not ruling out the possibility of maximizing its usage beyond the treatment of lung, colon, and breast cancers.
"Many other research studies have observed that deguelin has additional protein targets in cancer cells, making it a promising anticancer drug," Francisco said.
"However, the drawback is the potential harm it may cause when tried in clinical trials," he added.
Currently, UP scientists have modified the chemical compound of deguelin, resulting in multiple variations of the compound.
For instance, the "6a" version surpassed doxorubicin (a treatment for various types of cancers) in effectively treating colon cancer, while versions "3a" and "8e" demonstrated exceptional efficacy in addressing lung and breast cancer, respectively.
Possible in PH
"As long as there is funding for research, I believe we can do it in the Philippines," he said.
Moreover, Francisco emphasized that the essence of their research is to contribute to the community as scientists.
"Fortunately, I was able to join a research that can potentially help cancer patients, and I'm lucky enough to be part of producing a promising and effective yet safe anticancer drug," he said.
"Hoping that it reaches the market soon," he underscored.