Tomorrow Lab:Fighting Cancer

Scientists at the Weizmann Institute work to clarify the molecular mechanisms involved in metastasis, which is still one of the least understood aspects of cancer, and devise strategies against it.

Weizmann scientists invented the synergistic effect behind Erbitux®, an antibody-based therapy that presents synergism with conventional chemotherapy. Used to treat colorectal and head and neck cancer, Erbitux® was approved by the FDA in 2001.

Allicin, a natural chemical in garlic, has been used by Weizmann researchers to destroy malignant tumors while leaving healthy tissue intact. This technique could also prove invaluable for preventing metastasis following surgery.

Weizmann scientists were among the first to study and clone the p53 gene, defective copies of which are found in more than half of all human cancers. They determined that this gene can suppress cell proliferation and instigate necessary cell death. New treatments based on these findings are being developed.

Weizmann scientist Professor Yair Reisner tackled the problem of bone marrow transplantation between incompatible donors by using a hormone to mobilize the bone marrow cells of leukemia patients and “bubble” children. In 1993, this method was used for the first time to treat a leukemia patient in Italy.

A Weizmann scientist identified an enzyme that helps protect against lung cancer. Genetic differences may explain why some people get cancer while others, including smokers, don’t. A simple blood test could help gauge personal risk.

Weizmann Institute scientists are conducting pioneering research on the viability of photodynamic therapy (PDT) to treat malignant tumors. This “green” therapy can treat prostate cancer by combining non-toxic drug treatment with light, destroying the tumor’s blood supply. Clinical testing is underway.

Weizmann research established the foundation for the development of Gleevec®, which has been approved by the FDA to treat chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML).

Weizmann scientists succeeded in reversing the metastatic properties of colon cancer; their research may be used as the foundation for drugs that can specifically target colon cancer-causing genes.

Weizmann scientist Prof. Hadassa Degani developed a non-invasive, MRI-based method called three time point (3TP) that is FDA-approved for diagnosing breast and prostate cancer.