Scientists at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (BGU) have announced a potential breakthrough in cancer treatment.

BGN Technologies, BGU’s technology transfer company, announced on Monday, together with the National Institute of Biotechnology of the Negev (NIBN), that a research group led by Prof. Varda Shoshan-Barmatz of the Department of Life Sciences and NIBN is developing a new molecule for cancer treatment. This molecule has been shown not only to inhibit the growth of cancer cells but also to reprogram them to become normal cells.

According to a press release, the treatment is based on inhibiting the expression of VDAC1, a protein overexpressed in many solid and non-solid tumors.

Shoshan-Barmatz explained that VDAC1 acts as the gatekeeper of mitochondria, organelles that control cellular metabolism, and is therefore crucial for meeting the high energy demands that characterize malignant cells. She added that studies have shown that silencing VDAC1 expression inhibits cancer cell growth, both in vitro and in mouse models of glioblastoma, lung cancer, and triple-negative breast cancer.

“Although still in its early stages, we are excited by our results, which demonstrate the potential of this novel molecule for cancer treatment,” said Professor Shoshan-Barmatz.

Dr. Ora Horovitz, Senior Vice President of Business Development at BGN Technologies, commented: “We are seeking partners to develop and advance this promising proprietary treatment into the clinic, with the hope that it will pave the way for a new avenue for cancer treatment.”