BY JOTISRI VASUDEVAN
Two distinct tracks have emerged in the race to treat cancer: drug discovery and precision drug repurposing. Think of it as the classic marathon versus an unexpected shortcut.
Drug discovery resembles an arduous marathon. Researchers, like dedicated runners, meticulously create new drugs from scratch. This journey involves designing molecules, conducting preclinical studies, and enduring lengthy clinical trials.
On the other hand, precision drug repurposing offers a shortcut. Existing drugs, originally meant for different purposes, are repurposed for their potential to fight cancer.
Dr Nurul Syakima Ab Mutalib, an associate professor and senior research fellow from the UKM Medical Molecular Biology Institute at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), told The Petri Dish recently: “Drug discovery can span over ten years, precision drug repurposing can be a powerful tool to discover new treatments for cancer patients and can be accomplished in as little as three years from identification to implementation.”[ihc-hide-content ihc_mb_type=”block” ihc_mb_who=”unreg” ihc_mb_template=”3″ ]
Precision + Drug Repurposing in Cancer
The concept of precision refers to precision medicine about finding the right “key” (treatment) for the specific “lock” (cancer cells) in each patient, recognising that different patients may have different types of locks (unique cancer cell characteristics) that require distinct keys (specific treatments).
“Molecular profiling and research are used to understand the specific characteristics of each patient’s cancer cells, helping identify what’s inside them and the treatment strategies,” clarified Syakima.
Then, the drug repurposing comes in. Some drugs created for entirely different purposes might also have the right keys to unlock and defeat these cancer cells.
“An anthelmintic drug, for example. This medication was initially developed for different reasons, like fighting parasitic worms.”
“But scientists have found that they can be repurposed to target and destroy cancer cells effectively.”
“It has changed from a worm killer into a cancer cell killer,” said Syakima.
In simple terms, precision drug repurposing in cancer combines the knowledge of what’s inside each patient’s cancer cells with the power of existing drugs that can be repurposed for cancer treatment.
Effectiveness in Treating Cancer
“In Germany, clinical trials have been conducted, involving the oral administration of niclosamide, originally an anthelmintic drug, to explore its potential as a cancer-fighting treatment,” she said.
Syakima explained that current chemotherapy drugs have to be injected into the bloodstream to reach the target site or the cancer cells. However, niclosamide offers a more patient-friendly alternative.
“It is not only cost-effective but also less toxic compared to chemotherapy drugs. Additionally, it can be taken orally, sparing patients from painful injections and the associated side effects,” she continued.
Syakima shared that this aspect has garnered significant interest, not only for its potential effectiveness in treating cancer but also for its patient-centric approach.
“During my research attachment in the United Kingdom, I witnessed groundbreaking research into repurposing drugs, such as aspirin, a common painkiller to successfully delay or prevent colorectal cancer among Lynch Syndrome patients.’
“The outcomes were not just encouraging; they were a beacon of hope for finding innovative ways to combat cancer.”
“This ignited my passion for drug repurposing as a promising avenue in the field of cancer research, and I was eager to bring this knowledge and approach back to Malaysia,” she said.
Why Does It Matter the Most?
“Colorectal cancer in Malaysia is a pressing concern, with more than 70% of cases being diagnosed at late stages (3 and 4). In such advanced stages, surgery is often inadequate, and chemotherapy becomes a necessity,” she pointed out.
“However, the challenge lies in the fact that approximately 50% of patients exhibit resistance to the standard chemotherapy drug, 5-fluorouracil, commonly used in Malaysia,” she continued.
This drug follows a “one-size-fits-all” approach. It doesn’t take into consideration the patient’s genetic profile or the status of genes within the cancer cell. Instead, it broadly targets cancer cells.
“As a result, some patients respond positively, while others endure side effects without significant benefits.”
“Therefore, by combining precision drug repurposing with targeted treatments, patients with chemotherapy resistance may gain new hope,” she said.
It offers a personalised approach, addressing the unique characteristics of each patient’s cancer cells and optimising their treatment options. Syakima’s research initiatives become even more critical in this context.
Through extensive research into cancer cell genetics spanning 10 years, she has identified a pivotal gene to the discovery of an anthelmintic drug as a potential treatment for cancer
“The next stages will encompass the proposal of a clinical trial and the development of biosensors, all within the realm of precision drug repurposing in cancer,” she affirmed.
A Message for Aspiring Minds
She highlighted that affordability and accessibility are key strengths of precision drug repurposing, opening doors to enhanced treatment options for cancer patients in Malaysia and beyond.
“Therefore, I encourage students to nurture their curiosity and envision how their research can translate into better outcomes for cancer patients.”
“Remember, research shouldn’t culminate with your graduation or thesis; it should persist, always with the patient’s well-being at the forefront,” she underscored.[/ihc-hide-content]
