Synthetic antigen to conquer cancer; researchers at Indian Institute of Science (IISC) with breakthrough

BENGALURU: Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISC) have developed a synthetic antigen that can increase antibody production against cancer cells. This experiment is crucial for the future development of vaccines for various types of cancer.

A protein in the blood is carried to the lymph nodes to increase the production of antibodies against cancer cells. A protein called serum albumin in the blood plasma was chosen for this purpose.

Lymph nodes are the centre of the body's immune system. The experiment was conducted on mice. The synthetic antigen was developed by a team comprising Prof N Jayaraman of the Department of Organic Chemistry and TV Keerthana, a research student from Kannur Kunhimangalam.

No artificial protein was used to get the antigen to the target. TV Keertana said that they tried to transport the protein in the body itself to the lymph node. Scientists have previously tried to deliver antigens into the body using artificial proteins and virus particles as carriers. However, it caused side effects and reduced antibody production against cancer cells.