US scientists have created the first synthetic molecules to help fight disease cells by mimicking the behavior of antibodies, says the Journal of the American Chemical Society.
The work of researchers at Yale University (USA), synthetic antibody mimics (SyAMs) simultaneously attach to abnormal cells and disease-fighting cells, thereby directing the immune system’s response. They behave just like real antibodies.
However, unlike antibodies, our molecules are artificially created organic compounds, the size of which is about 1/20 the size of antibodies, ‘explains Prof. David A. Spiegel, co-author of the publication.
Although inconspicuous, they are effective. Scientists have demonstrated their action on the example of prostate cancer. Specialized molecules (SyAM-Ps) quickly recognized cancer cells and bound to a specific protein on their surface. They then attached themselves to immune cell receptors. This triggered a targeted immune response that led to the destruction of dangerous opponents.
Moreover, synthetic antibody mimics appear to be safe for the body.
They are structured in such a way that they are unlikely to provoke unwanted immune responses. They are also thermally stable and can be administered orally, just like traditional medications, explains Spiegel.
The only downside is the time and effort involved in constructing the right molecule. The process of synthesizing and optimizing artificial antibodies takes a long time, but it is probably worthwhile as the molecules could be used in the future to treat various types of cancer, HIV and bacterial diseases. (PAP)