A pill could be used to treat both cancer and cardiovascular disease, according to scientists. These two diseases, commonly considered separate, share striking similarities, particularly with regard to chronic inflammation. Atherosclerosis, a fatal cardiovascular disease, is caused by the accumulation of fat and cholesterol on the walls of blood vessels, forming plaques that can lead to heart attacks. Cancer, on the other hand, is often caused by genetic mutations that lead to uncontrolled cell growth. Nanotechnology could be the solution, through the development of nanoparticles that can target specific immune cells. These particles can be loaded with drugs that stimulate immune cells to remove plaque, reducing its size. Furthermore, these particles could also be used to improve the diagnosis of cardiovascular disease by highlighting plaques on blood vessels. This discovery opens new avenues for drug development and could reduce the costs associated with the clinical approval process for treatments.
EDITORIAL TEAM
Choose the social channel you want to subscribe to