New bacterial protein may enhance cancer drug delivery
Researchers have discovered a new bacterial protein called BeeR, which may improve cancer drug delivery systems. This protein, found in soil and the human gut, has a unique tubular structure that differs from other actin-like proteins. The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, reveals that BeeR forms a hollow tube when combined with ATP. This structure allows for potential targeted delivery of anticancer drugs to tumors. Dr. Julien Bergeron and his team are now developing protein nanoparticles using BeeR for drug delivery. They are currently testing this method in pre-clinical breast cancer models.