Some people call it the “smart bomb”. When injected, cyanine-carborane salts are absorbed (mostly by cancerous tissue rather than healthy tissue) resulting in reduced side effects.
As recently reported in Science Daily, teams of MIT Scientists and the University of California in Riverside developed special salts by combining dyes that are positively charged cyanine dyes with carborane clusters that are negatively charged.
The salts are designed to kill cells by creating reactive oxygen species beginning, conversely, from the inside of the cell. The combined salts absorb near infrared (NIR) light and are activated. NIR is a therapeutic application that passes into the body in great depth compared to visible light.
The exposure to near-infrared light causes the compounds to be activated. This leads to the production of ROS which is a harmful species that sets off a chain reaction causing cell death.
About NIR
Near-infrared (NIR) light is a type of electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths longer than visible light.
Although NIR is invisible to the human eye, it can penetrate deeper into the body than visible light using powerful compounds that are light-activated and developed for improved precision. It is also less toxic, and more efficient.
About PDT
The traditional PDT drug has been available for decades. It combines oxygen, and a light-sensitive drug, plus targeted light. When the drug is positioned at the site of the cancer cells, a reaction generating toxic molecules kills the cells.
The excitement surrounding the new drug results from the fact that traditional PDT drugs have severe side effects. This includes minimal tissue penetration, permanent skin sensitivity, and injury to healthy cells.
A more serious issue after traditional PDT treatment is that low levels of light can cause a patient’s skin to blister or burn. Therefore, the patients are required to remain in darkened rooms for at least three months.
Sophia Lunt, a Michigan State biochemistry professor, commented that thus far it appears that this research may bring about safer and more efficient therapy for patients, especially those with limited options.
Editor’s Note: Get Involved
Cancer doesn’t discriminate. WHATNEXT and its partners are interested in amplifying the voices of those from all identities and backgrounds. If you have a cancer journey to share, reach out here to learn more about how your voice can help spread awareness and inspire individuals from all walks of life.
cancer cancer research Near-infrared light NIR
Last modified: April 17, 2025
