By Risa Shimmura
For years, scientists have been looking for cures for cancer. 10 million people die from cancer every year. However, this new and recent discovery may put a stop to this global serial killer.
In Indonesia, a special sponge was discovered. This sponge creates a molecule called Manzamine A. This molecule is able to stop the growth of cervical cancer cells.
The Medical University of South Carolina researched the effects of Manzamine A on cancer cells. They determined that these molecules do indeed kill cancer cells. However, what was more surprising was that normal body cells weren’t harmed.
Mark T. Hamann, the chair of biomedical sciences at MUSC explained that, “natural products have led to the development of most of our antibiotics and anti-cancer therapies and many controls for pain.”
This molecule is also effective against the parasite responsible for malaria. This unique class of drugs are also candidates for the control of COVID-19. Using computer modeling, it showed that manzamine A is very potent in blocking the problematic proteins.
I think that some of the best cures that we have seen are those given to us by nature. However, as climate change starts to escalate and destroy species and habitats, opportunities like these will also wash away. We must protect our planet.
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