Scientists uncovered a certain type of immune cell, a T-cell, found in our blood, which is able to scan and eradicate threats – including a wide range of cancer cells: ovarian, cervical, blood, kidney, prostate, lung, colon, and numerous others. And astoundingly, all normal tissue is left unaltered.
The newly discovered T-cell works together with a particular molecule found on the surface of every cell inside our body, referred to as the MR1 molecule. The theory is that the MR1 is alerting the T-cell of any cancer cell malformations. Garry Dolton, who was a part of the research team, explains, “We are the first to describe a T-cell that finds MR1 in cancer cells – that hasn’t been done before; this is the first of its kind.”
While there is currently a comparable type of therapy, called CAR-T, which has illustrated extraordinary outcomes in bringing individuals from a terminal status to complete remission, it is only been shown to be effective in some forms of cancer, and not “solid cancers” (those that form tumors). This new discovery has shown thus far to affect all types of cancer. Here’s how it works:
- Blood is obtained from an individual diagnosed with cancer.
- The blood is filtered to take out T-cells.
- A particular variety of innocuous virus is injected into the T-cells, allowing them to pick up on cancer cells.
- These cells are then copied in a lab, and put back into the individual.
Results have been remarkably successful in animal trials, and with additional safety checks, the next phase will be human trials. As outlined by Daniel Davis, professor of immunology at the University of Manchester, “There is no question that it’s a very exciting discovery, both for advancing our basic knowledge about the immune system and for the possibility of future new medicines.”
While we keep an eye out for additional information about developments in this new cancer treatment, you can rely upon Seniorcorp’s experts in senior home care in Virginia Beach, VA and the surrounding communities for the top quality care for individuals diagnosed with cancer and various other long-term conditions. Just a few of the countless ways we are able to help individuals in Norfolk, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, Virginia Beach, and Suffolk include:
- Meal planning and preparation, specific to virtually any dietary constraints or difficulties
- Warm companionship
- Light housekeeping and laundry
- Running errands, such as picking up prescriptions and trips to market
- Transportation to medical appointments/procedures and enjoyable outings
- And much more
Take the first step to a better quality of life for someone you love. Contact us online or call us at 757-640-0557 to learn more about our home care in Virginia Beach, VA and nearby areas.
