Chemists of the Otto-Von Guerickke University Magdeburg have succeeded in significant progress in cancer research: For the first time they have synthetically produced the highly effective active ingredient Disorazole Z1, which naturally occurs in goat manure. The researchers themselves speak of a “breakthrough”.
The active ingredient is one of the most active substances in terms of cytotoxicity – ie the ability to prevent the growth of human and animal cells and to destroy them in a targeted way. Because of these properties, it has been investigated for years as a possible anti -cancer diagram.
Active ingredient from unusual source
Disorazole Z1 is a natural substance that is normally produced by bacteria. These occur worldwide and can often be found in organic waste such as goat manure. The substance is extremely active, as chemiker Dieter Schinzer explains: “We are talking about picomolar concentrations, ie twelve zeros behind the comma.”
Because of this high potential, only about two milligrams of about two milligrams were initially synthesized. “If we had produced larger quantities, this could have had the consequences for health,” Schinzer continued.
Artificial production opens new possibilities
So far, Disorazole Z1 has only been obtained through bacteria, but the research team has now succeeded in re -creating the active ingredient with a very efficient process in the laboratory for the first time. “We have simulated nature, but with a decisive advantage: bacteria only produce disorazole Z1 in a certain form, while we can specifically adjust and optimize it for medical applications,” Schinzer explains.
A decisive next step is the targeted further development of the molecule, so that it is moored to a certain protein – an antibody – and in this way directly led to a tumor. There, the active ingredient would then destroy tumor cells, while healthy cells are largely saved.
Collaboration with planned industry
The scientists are now planning to have their discovery patented quickly and to publish the results in specialized magazines. In addition, the material must be further developed in collaboration with industrial partners to optimize the medical application. The goal is to transfer Disorazole Z1 to therapy that works effectively against cancer and at the same time minimizes side effects.
The researchers hope that their discovery will contribute to innovative cancer therapies in the future and will initiate a new era in the treatment of malignant tumors.
Source: Krone
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