A recent study demonstrates the effects of a new ‘smart drug’ aimed at aiding the chemotherapy experience for leukaemia patients, and goes some way in achieving this hope. In a Cancer Research UK-funded trial held at Cardiff University, Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML) patients were given this new drug in addition to their chemotherapy treatment. Twenty-two per cent were found to be less likely to relapse after treatment and thirteen per cent less likely to die from the disease. 1,115 patients participated in the study and 68% experienced a relapse within three years. In the case of the control group, who underwent standard chemotherapy, this statistic stood at 76%. Comparative survival rates stood at 25% and 20% respectively.
The focus of the trial was the drug Gemtuzumab Ozogamicin (GO). Known as a ‘smart drug’ it promotes ‘intelligent’ antibodies that are able to recognise certain proteins existing on the surface of cancer cells. Using these as a guide, it attaches itself to chemotherapy molecules and targets the cancer cells directly, leaving healthy cells unharmed. Such a technique offers a lifeline for patients too frail to undergo regular chemotherapy, and if developed further could improve the chemotherapy experience for all cancer sufferers. It means a boost in the effectiveness of treatment, as well as a reduction of side effects, meaning that survival rates are sure to benefit as a result.