Laboratory scientists develop new cancer-killing drug

Laboratory scientists have unveiled a new non-invasive and non-toxic method of treating lymphoma cells in cancer patients.

Described as a "breakthrough" by the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation, the treatment is a drug that targets an oncogene known as BCL6.

Associate professor of medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College in New York City Dr Alexander MacKerell said BCL6 is a protein that controls "thousands of other genes".

"Because of that, it has a very profound impact on cells and is required for lymphoma cells to survive and multiply," he explained.

According to the expert, current chemotherapy methods for large B cell lymphomas cure 60 per cent of patients, but it is hoped a larger number can be saved with the new medication.

It is possible that the drug may eventually negate the need for toxic treatments completely, he added.

Last month, laboratory scientists at Fox Chase Cancer Center revealed they may have found an innovative way to screen early for ovarian tumours.