Russian scientists have increased the solubility of a compound that neutralizes cancer cells, while preserving its structure and effectiveness. The discovery was made by specialists from Perm National Research Polytechnic University and the Institute of Technical Chemistry of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences.
For the first time in Russia, scientists have studied the possibility of increasing the solubility of the anti-tumor compound betulin, obtained from a substance found in birch bark. They managed to increase the solubility of the substance by 5–10 times, while preserving its structure and activity.
As the researchers explained, betulin compounds were difficult to use in medicine due to their poor solubility in water. To solve this problem, the researchers used special molecules – cyclodextrins. They help to "package" the substance so that it does not precipitate in an aqueous environment and dissolves better. Thanks to this, the compound can be more effectively absorbed by the body without losing its properties.
PNIPU noted that the technology does not require expensive equipment and toxic reagents, which can significantly reduce costs in the development of new drugs.
