'Lock-and-key' chemistry keeps cancer drugs inactive until they reach tumor sites
Phys.org
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A groundbreaking study by Syracuse University researchers reveals a novel "lock-and-key" chemistry approach that keeps cancer drugs inactive until they reach tumor sites, potentially reducing harm to healthy tissues. This innovative strategy could revolutionize cancer treatment by localizing drug activity, minimizing side effects, and improving therapeutic outcomes.
The research focuses on creating molecules that remain dormant until activated by specific biological cues at the tumor site. By using a chemoselective mechanism, the drugs stay inactive in healthy tissue environments but become active when exposed to certain enzymes or conditions found near cancer cells. This precise targeting could significantly reduce systemic toxicity while maximizing therapeutic efficacy.
The study highlights the importance of developing therapies that avoid harming non-cancerous tissues, a major challenge in current cancer treatment. Many chemotherapeutic agents are inherently toxic and affect both healthy and diseased cells, leading to severe side effects. The "lock-and-key" approach addresses this limitation by ensuring drugs remain inactive during transport through the body and only activate upon reaching their intended target.
This breakthrough could pave the way for more effective and safer cancer treatments. By selectively activating drugs at tumor sites, researchers aim to enhance treatment outcomes while minimizing patient suffering from side effects like nausea, fatigue, and immunosuppression. The
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Originally published on Phys.org on 2/25/2026