UW scientists showcase new way to fight cancer

UW-Madison scientists have found a more effective way to fight cancer cells while sparing healthy cells, according to a Monday release.  

 

The finding, presented at the annual national meeting of the American Chemical Society, uses natural immune responses in the human body to kill cancer cells. UW-Madison chemistry professor Laura Kiessling, who helped to lead the research, said in the release that the process used is not typically directed towards cancer cells.  

 

The process targets cells that have high levels of integrins, which are molecules found often on the surface of cancer and tumor cells.  

 

Kiessling also said the techniques could be used on non-cancerous diseases involving harmful cells.