Researchers at Saratov State University (SSU) have proposed an innovative approach to treating oncological diseases using terahertz radiation. This method, unlike traditional radio and chemotherapy, does not damage healthy tissues and could become the basis for safer treatments.
Terahertz waves occupy the frequency range between infrared and microwave radiation. Their key advantage is their low energy, which makes them non-ionizing and safe for biological tissues.
Terahertz photons have low energy, so this radiation is non-ionizing, unlike X-rays, and does not harm living tissues.
The main mechanism of action is related to the vibrations of water molecules, which make up to 90% of the cell mass. Experiments have shown that terahertz waves disrupt the structure of cancer cell membranes, activate the body's defense mechanisms, and slow down tumor division.
The method is currently undergoing laboratory testing. If its effectiveness is confirmed, it will pave the way for the creation of non-invasive therapeutic systems.
In the future, the use of terahertz radiation will allow, without worsening the patient's quality of life, to correct the functioning of tumor cells.
The project is supported by the Russian Science Foundation and is being implemented as part of the "Priority-2030" program.
Radiation in the terahertz range is already used in security systems, such as scanners installed in airports, which indicates its safety.
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