ISLAMABAD: In the gut bacteria of a Japanese tree frog, researchers found an encouraging new approach to cancer treatment in which one bacterial strain killed tumors in mice without severe side effects.
Scientists at the Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology researched amphibians and reptiles out of an observation that these creatures seldom suffer from cancer.
They screened 45 bacterial strains from frogs, newts, and lizards for the ability of the microbes to inhibit tumor growth.
Of these, nine strains exhibited high anti-tumor activity; however, one strain was outstanding. A bacterium discovered in the Japanese tree frog, Ewingella americana, completely eradicated tumors in treated mice after just one dose.
Whereas other strains had temporary activity, E. americana did not allow the tumors to return after 30 days, even when cancerous cells were reintroduced.
The mice did not develop any tumours in the subsequent month. Further study revealed that the bacterium attacks the tumors directly and, at the same time, strengthens the immune system, thus activating T cells, B cells, and neutrophils.
Researchers believe its effectiveness may be because it is able to survive in low-oxygen environments, such as tumors, where many immune cells and chemotherapy drugs cannot work effectively.
Animal studies suggest the treatment is relatively safe. The bacteria quickly cleared from the bloodstream, caused no lasting toxicity, and did not damage healthy organs.
