Anti-cancer treatment with less stress on the heart being developed at KubSMU

Scientists at Kuban State Medical University (KubSMU) in Krasnodar are developing a method of anti-cancer therapy with minimal stress on the heart, TASS was told by the project manager, Doctor of Biological Sciences Alexander Slavinsky. The study aims to improve the safety and effectiveness of treatment for patients in both cardiology and oncology. The scientists are focusing on the metabolic protection of the myocardium when using chemotherapeutic drugs. Particular attention is paid to berberine, a biologically active compound from barberry and centaury, which has the potential to strengthen the heart muscle, normalize blood circulation and lower blood pressure.

According to Slavinsky, existing anti-cancer drugs have pronounced cardiotoxicity, which limits therapeutic options and reduces the quality of life of patients. It is planned to assess the mechanisms of myocardial damage, develop new drug approaches and create a detailed characterization of cardiotoxic complications. It is expected that the results of the study will be implemented in medical institutions of the Krasnodar Territory and other regions of Russia as part of the national project "Long and Active Life" with the support of the Kuban Science Foundation.

Research principles and the role of berberine

Scientists plan to study the protective properties of berberine in anti-cancer therapy. The compound helps to strengthen the heart muscle, lower blood pressure and normalize cholesterol levels. These effects will help reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular complications in patients receiving chemotherapy.

The use of berberine can reduce the cardiotoxicity of existing drugs and increase the safety of therapy compared to current practice.

Reducing the load on the heart will expand the therapeutic potential of anti-cancer drugs and increase the duration and quality of life of cancer patients.

Read materials on the topic: