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Salmonella as a Cancer Fighter
Dateline: 12/16/99
In an interesting twist of events, researchers at the Yale Cancer Center are using Salmonella bacteria to fight cancer. The first phase of human trials has started and the Salmonella is currently being administered to patients.
In the trials, the patients are administered a genetically altered form of Salmonella and initially monitored at a hospital. After administration and subsequent monitoring, the patients are discharged.
Salmonella is commonly known for its role in food poisoning and septic shock. In the study, scientists altered the "wild type" of salmonella. It is genetically modified and stripped of its ability to cause illness.
Once stripped, the bacteria have been successfully used to shrink solid tumors in animals. The modified form also inhibits the growth of the tumors as well.
With its pathogenicity removed, the Salmonella can target cancer cells with little adverse effects. In the test animals, scientists were able to substantially increase the life span of the animals that had melanoma cancer.
Based on the results obtained in the animal trials, the researchers are optimistic about the expected results in humans. The human trials will consist of several phases designed to determine if the altered Salmonella can successfully inhibit and shrink tumors. The patients in the study thus far all have tumors that are in or beneath the skin.
Salmonella enteritidis
Copyright Dennis Kunkel
What do you think? We have seen many promising cancer treatments come and go. Do you think that this approach will ultimately be successful? Come on over to the Biology Forum and share your thoughts, opinions, and feelings. 'Til next time...
For additional information see:
- Infection by Salmonella
Animation of Salmonella infecting a host. From the HHMI. - Scientists Use Salmonella to Fight Cancer
Original news release about the human clinical trials.
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