(AGENPARL) – mar 04 febbraio 2025 PRESS STATEMENT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
4 February 2025
CUT doctoral researcher integrates traditional therapies with modern scientific innovative techniques to treat cancer
The Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT) is proud to announce a significant advancement in cancer treatment, specifically targeting triple-negative breast cancer through the innovative integration of nanotechnology and traditional acupuncture techniques.
This research, led by Doctoral researcher Ipeleng Kopano Rosinah Kgosiemang, under the tutelage of esteemed professors Mamello Sekhoacha (University of the Free State) and Samson Mashele (Central University of Technology), introduced a novel drug delivery system utilising Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles (SPIONs). These nanoparticles are synthesised using an eco-friendly method that incorporates the anticancer properties of the medicinal plant Euphorbia tirucalli.
This groundbreaking method employs electromagnetism to guide chemotherapeutic agents directly to tumour sites. By combining SPIONs with targeted acupuncture points, the researchers have achieved enhanced drug delivery to cancerous cells while minimising damage to healthy tissues and reducing side effects. In experiments with a mouse xenograft model of triple-negative breast cancer, this approach demonstrated superior effectiveness in inhibiting tumour proliferation compared to the conventional chemotherapy drug doxorubicin.
“Cancer therapies have historically been associated with severe side effects due to their inability to selectively target cancer cells. This innovative research addresses these challenges by merging: Nanotechnology: Utilising SPIONs to magnetically direct drugs to tumours,” said Kgosiemang.
She added that Traditional Chinese Medicine: Electroacupuncture enhances drug delivery precision through consistent stimulation of acupuncture points, promoting holistic healing while exerting inhibitory effects on tumour growth and metastasis. “This interdisciplinary approach not only advances biomedical technology but also highlights the value of integrating traditional therapies with modern scientific innovations.”
“The implications of this research are profound. By focusing on precision, sustainability, and accessibility, this novel method offers hope for more effective treatments for aggressive cancers while significantly reducing chemotherapy toxicity. As further development and refinement of this technology continue, it holds the potential to transform cancer care globally. As the Central University of Technology progresses in this innovative research, it reaffirms its commitment to advancing science and improving patient outcomes through the collaboration of exceptional researchers and scholars,” said Prof. Samson Mashele, Dean of Health and Environmental Sciences.
Captions:
1. Esteemed professors behind Ipeleng Kgosiemang’s groundbreaking research from left: Prof. Mamello Sekhoacha (University of the Free State), Doctoral researcher Ipeleng Kopano Rosinah Kgosiemang and Prof. Samson Mashele, Dean: Health and Environmental Sciences (Central University of Technology).
2. Doctoral researcher Ipeleng Kgosiemang, adamant to make a difference in the lives of cancer patients with her groundbreaking research.
More about CUT
CUT is the foremost higher education institution in the heartland of South Africa, dedicated to quality education and training in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. CUT boasts pockets of excellence, including a premier hotel school and leading research and innovation platforms, i.e., world-class 3D printing technology through medical product development.
For more information about CUT visit http://www.cut.ac.za
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