Scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery in the fight against cancer, as they have found a new method to destroy cancer cells in the lab. By stimulating aminocyanine molecules with near-infrared light, researchers were able to cause these molecules to vibrate in sync, ultimately leading to the breakdown of cancer cell membranes.

Aminocyanine molecules, which are commonly used in bioimaging as synthetic dyes, have been found to be effective in attaching themselves to the outside of cells. In low doses, they are used to detect cancer and are known for their stability in water.

The research team, consisting of scientists from Rice University, Texas A&M University, and the University of Texas, has described this new approach as a significant improvement over previously developed cancer-killing molecular machines, such as Feringa-type motors, which also had the capability to break down cell structures.

Chemist James Tour from Rice University referred to the new molecular machines as ‘molecular jackhammers,’ highlighting their remarkable speed and the fact that they can be activated with near-infrared light, as opposed to visible light. This use of near-infrared light is particularly significant, as it allows for deeper penetration into the body, potentially enabling the treatment of cancer in bones and organs without the need for invasive surgery.

Tests conducted on lab-grown cancer cells demonstrated that the molecular jackhammer method achieved a 99 percent success rate in destroying the cells. Furthermore, when the approach was tested on mice with melanoma tumors, half of the animals became cancer-free.

The unique structure and chemical properties of aminocyanine molecules enable them to synchronize with the appropriate stimulus, such as near-infrared light. When set in motion, the electrons inside these molecules form a vibration mechanism that proves to be effective in breaking down cancer cell membranes.