A novel approach to mitigate the side effects of chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a pivotal tool in the fight against cancer; however, its application often brings about unwanted side effects. One primary challenge is theĀ persistence of toxic metals, such as platinum (Pt2+), in patientsā systems post-treatment. Such heavy metals can inflict organ damage and give rise to severe side effects, including nephrotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, and neurotoxicity. To address this concern, Byotic has pioneered a promising prototype, specifically tailored for the selective retention of metals, with a particular focus on platinum. Consequently, this initiative aims atĀ reducing toxic platinum levels post chemotherapy.
An innovative focus with selective metal retention
The main aim of the present project is to research and gauge the efficacy of this prototype in metal retention, via apheresis, in animals with tumors subjected to chemotherapy. The prototype features aĀ selective adsorbent column for platinum (Pt2+), harnessing an adsorbent biomaterial.
Apheresis is an extracorporeal filtration method employed to eradicate unwanted substances from the bloodstream. Herein, the prototype is intended to retain heavy metals, notably platinum, potentially lingering post-chemotherapy. ByĀ selectively adsorbing these heavy metals through theĀ apheresis membrane, the hope is to curtail chemotherapyās side effects linked to the presence of toxic metals in the body.
Chemotherapy with equal efficacy and reduced toxicity
In order to realize the projectās overarching objective, preclinical studies will be conducted on porcine models. Specifically, these studies aim to assess theĀ adsorbent columnās efficacy in decreasing plasma platinum levels.
This project, jointly financed by theĀ Centre for the Development of Industrial TechnologyĀ (CDTI)Ā of Spainās Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness, represents a crucial milestone inĀ Byoticās R&D endeavors. Nevertheless, while hurdles like the crafting of aĀ porcine xenotransplant model and the feasibility of apheresis in these animals lie ahead, this groundbreaking approach not only promises to better the lives of cancer patients but also pave the way for more efficacious treatments.
TECNIC and Byotic are currently partnering to carry out a national project on bioreactors and autologous cells.
