New light-based cancer therapy kills tumour cells without harming healthy tissue

Scientists have developed a revolutionary LED light-based cancer therapy that targets tumour cells while leaving healthy tissue unharmed. The treatment uses microscopic tin-based flakes, known as SnOx nanoflakes, which absorb near-infrared LED light and convert it into heat, selectively destroying cancer cells. This approach offers a safer, non-invasive alternative to conventional chemotherapy, which often causes painful side effects. Developed through collaboration between The University of Texas at Austin and the University of Porto via the UT Austin Portugal Program, the therapy promises precision, safety, and accessibility. By replacing lasers with LED light, the method reduces the risk of damage to healthy tissue and lowers costs, potentially bringing effective cancer treatment to a wider range of clinical and home settings.



SnOx nanoflake photothermal therapy shows high effectiveness in lab studies

A recent study published in ACS Nano tested the LED and SnOx nanoflake treatment on skin and colorectal cancer cells. Researchers found that just 30 minutes of exposure destroyed up to 92% of skin cancer cells and 50% of colorectal cancer cells, while leaving healthy human skin cells unharmed. This demonstrates the therapy’s precision, safety, and selectivity, making it a promising alternative to conventional treatments.
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The study, titled “SnOx Nanoflakes as Enhanced Near-Infrared Photothermal Therapy Agents Synthesized from Electrochemically Oxidized SnS2 Powders,” explained that the SnOx nanoflakes act as photothermal agents: when illuminated with near-infrared light, they generate heat that disrupts cancer cell membranes and proteins, effectively killing the cells.

Professor Jean Anne Incorvia of UT Austin highlighted the therapy’s dual advantages: “We’ve developed a method to precisely target cancer cells while leaving healthy cells untouched.” Professor Artur Pinto of the University of Porto added that the technique could be adapted for use in diverse clinical settings around the world.



Near-infrared photothermal therapy: How it works and why it is safer

Near-infrared photothermal therapy, the foundation of this new treatment, works by selectively heating cancer cells until they die, a process known as hyperthermia. Cancer cells are more sensitive to heat than normal cells, making it possible to target tumours without harming surrounding tissue.

The UT-Portugal research team is investigating the light-heat interaction further to optimise the therapy. They aim to explore other catalyst materials that could enhance the treatment’s efficiency and expand its applications to different types of cancers. By understanding the mechanisms behind photothermal therapy, researchers hope to refine the technology for safer, faster, and more effective treatments. Additionally, they are examining potential combinations with existing therapies, assessing long-term effects on healthy tissue, and exploring portable LED devices to make the treatment more accessible and practical for widespread clinical use.



Future applications of portable led cancer treatment devices

The researchers envision bringing this therapy directly to patients through portable LED devices. Pinto explained: “Our ultimate goal is to make this technology available everywhere, especially in areas with limited access to specialised equipment.” For skin cancers, small devices could be applied after surgery to irradiate residual cancer cells, reducing recurrence risk and potentially moving treatment from hospital settings into patients’ homes.

Since their collaboration began in 2021, Incorvia and Pinto have achieved multiple breakthroughs in using two-dimensional nanomaterials for cancer therapy. They recently received additional funding through the UT Austin Portugal Program to develop an implant for breast cancer patients based on their findings. These efforts underscore the ongoing potential of LED-activated SnOx nanoflake therapy as a safe, cost-effective, and widely accessible cancer treatment.


Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or lifestyle change.


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