Scientists unlock potential of frog skin to treat cancer
Baku, June 14 (AZERTAC), Scientists at Queen`s University Belfast have discovered proteins in frog skins which could be used to treat cancer, diabetes, stroke and transplant patients by regulating the growth of blood vessels
Scientists at Queen`s University Belfast have discovered proteins in frog skins which could be used to treat cancer, diabetes, stroke and transplant patients by regulating the growth of blood vessels.
The award-winning research, led by Professor Chris Shaw at Queen`s School of Pharmacy, has identified two proteins, or `peptides`, which can be used in a controlled and targeted way to regulate `angiogenesis` - the process by which blood vessels grow in the body. The discovery holds the potential to develop new treatments for more than seventy major diseases and conditions that affect more than one billion people worldwide.
The proteins are found in secretions on the skins of the Waxy Monkey Frog and the Giant Firebellied Toad. Scientists capture the frogs and gently extract the secretions, before releasing them back in to the wild. The frogs are not harmed in any way during this process.
Explaining how his research team looks to the natural world to solve problems where other methods of drug discovery have failed, Professor Shaw said:
The Queen`s researchers will receive the Commendation in the Cardiovasular Innovation Award at the Medical Futures Innovation Awards in London this evening (Monday 6 June). The Awards are one of Europe`s most prestigious healthcare and business awards, rewarding innovative ideas from front line clinicians, scientists and entrepreneurs. Professor Shaw`s team are the only entry from Northern Ireland to be successful at this year`s awards.
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