New research has revealed that a parasitic fungus growing on caterpillars could slow the growth of cancer cells, offering promising potential for novel cancer treatments.
The chemical cordycepin, produced by the fungus Cordyceps militaris, interacts with genes to disrupt the signals that drive abnormal cell growth, a hallmark of cancer.
Scientists from the University of Nottingham’s School of Pharmacy conducted the study, published in FEBS Letters, highlighting how cordycepin interrupts overactive cell growth signals.
This breakthrough could lead to the development of new drugs to treat cancer, as researchers continue to explore the compound’s therapeutic potential.
Caterpillar fungus has long been used in traditional medicine and is considered a prized delicacy in parts of Asia. Now, its active compound, cordycepin, is being studied for its impact on cancer cell activity.
The research compared the effects of cordycepin to other treatments and demonstrated its ability to regulate genetic pathways involved in cell proliferation. The results are seen as a significant step forward in cancer therapy development.
Cornelia de Moor, from the University’s School of Pharmacy, commented, “Our data confirms that cordycepin is a good starting point for novel cancer medicines and explains its beneficial effects. For instance, derivatives of cordycepin could aim to produce the triphosphate form of the drug to have the same effect.”
The research also provides valuable insight into monitoring the effects of cordycepin in patients.
“The data will help with monitoring the effects of cordycepin in patients, as our data indicate particular genes whose activity reliably responds to cordycepin, which could for instance be measured in blood cells,” de Moor stated.
This exciting discovery paves the way for future research into cordycepin-based therapies, with the potential to revolutionise cancer treatment.
