Researchers have developed a potential non-invasive treatment for melanoma in the form of a stretchy, heat-activated patch.
It releases copper ions when activated, which kill underlying cancer cells and prevent their spread.
Researchers say the patch reduced melanoma lesions without damaging surrounding tissue.
The patch is soft, stretchy, breathable and chemically inert. But the researchers suggested that gently heating the patch would release copper ions that interact with cancer cells’ DNA, killing them through oxidative stress.
This pathway should also trigger an immune response that inhibits tumour cell migration into other parts of the body (metastasis).
To test the concept, the researchers placed the patch over melanoma cells cultured in the laboratory.
They warmed the patch to 108 degrees Fahrenheit (42 degrees Celsius) with a low-power laser.
In its now-activated state, the patch released copper ions into the melanoma cells directly beneath it. The team found that copper ions killed most of the cultured melanoma cells and slowed cell movement.
Early study results, combined with the patch’s reusability and ease of administration, suggest the technology could eventually be used for targeted, safe and efficient melanoma treatment in humans.
