Overview
- RMIT researchers report that in vitro, the molybdenum-oxide nanodots killed cervical cancer cells at three times the rate of healthy cells over 24 hours.
- Minute additions of hydrogen and ammonium fine-tuned the particles to generate reactive oxygen species that drive cancer cells into apoptosis.
- The nanodots operated in darkness, with separate tests showing 90% breakdown of a blue dye in 20 minutes, indicating strong chemical activity without light.
- The work is at an early preclinical stage and has only been demonstrated in laboratory-grown cells, with no animal or human data yet.
- The team aims to develop tumor-targeted delivery and tighter ROS control, begin animal studies, and seek industry partners, citing possible cost benefits over noble-metal approaches.