Tumors that develop due to RAS mutations are extremely difficult to treat, and are responsible for roughly 25% of cancer deaths. A recent “New Altas” Article discussed that researchers at UCSF found that a lot of the tumors linked to RAS gene mutations contain high concentrations of ferrous iron. Beyond that, they discovered a connection between the elevated iron levels and shorter survival times for patients. So, they took cobimetinib, an FDA-approved cancer drug, and modified it with a molecular sensor for ferrous iron to reduce collateral damage to healthy tissue. The drug remains inactive until in encounters ferrous iron in the cancer cells, at which point it activates its anti-cancer effects.

Healthcare Packaging Magazine March/April 2022