Researchers have developed a low-cost, non-invasive cancer treatment that uses LED light and tin-based nanoflakes to destroy tumors without the harsh side effects of chemotherapy.
The treatment works by giving patients ultra-thin tin oxide (SnOx) nanoflakes that target cancer cells. When exposed to simple LED light, the nanoflakes heat up and kill the cancer cells from the inside, leaving healthy cells unharmed. In lab tests, the therapy destroyed 92% of skin cancer cells in 30 minutes and 50% of colorectal cancer cells.
Because it uses cheap LEDs and abundant tin, the therapy is more affordable and easier to use in areas with limited medical resources. Researchers hope it could one day be used in portable or wearable devices for home care, and they are already adapting the method for implants to treat breast cancer.