Scientists have developed a new light therapy that can destroy cancer cells without harming healthy cells. The method, which utilizes LEDs and tin nanosheets, holds promise as a safe and cost-effective alternative to chemotherapy.
The scientists replaced the expensive lasers and materials used in traditional light therapy with LEDs and SnOx nanosheets. This new technology bypasses healthy tissue and directly targets cancer cells. The method, based on the photothermal effect, converts light into heat, destroying tumor cells without surgery or toxic drugs.
In a study published in the journal ACS Nano, the new therapy demonstrated impressive results. Within 30 minutes of exposure, it destroyed up to 92% of skin cancer cells and 50% of colon cancer cells.
In the future, patients may be able to use portable LED devices at home to destroy residual cancer cells after surgery. The scientists have received additional funding to develop breast cancer implants based on the same technology.
