Ewing's Sarcoma Resistance to Chemotherapy Bypassed by Sechenov University Scientists: Treatment Will Be Targeted

Specialists from Sechenov University have developed a new targeted drug delivery system for the therapy of Ewing's sarcoma, resistant to standard treatment. The technology is based on microparticles made of the natural protein lactoferrin. Experiments have confirmed the ability of the complex to enhance the cytotoxic effect and trigger alternative mechanisms of tumor cell death.

A key feature of the development is the possibility of controlled release of the active substance. Tests on cell cultures have demonstrated that microparticles ensure drug delivery within 24 hours. The release process depends on the pH level of the environment, which allows the drug to be activated directly in the tumor area.

Leading researcher at the Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Ilya Ulasov, noted that Ewing's sarcoma often loses sensitivity to classical chemotherapy. The research group showed that the combination of lactoferrin carriers with a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor activates ferroptosis. This type of programmed cell death is associated with impaired iron metabolism and increased oxidative stress. According to the authors of the project, this approach creates a basis for the treatment of drug-resistant forms of the disease.

An important advantage of the system remains its selectivity. Lactoferrin reacts with receptors that are often excessively expressed on the membranes of cancer cells. This contributes to the accumulation of the drug in the lesion and reduces the impact on healthy tissues.