MAGAZINE ABOUT LIFE IN ISRAEL

Groundbreaking Israeli Research on Cancer

in Health & Science

Israeli research is reaching breakthrough results when it comes to better managing cancer and chronic disease. From studies that prevent skin cancer in mice to a blood test that diagnoses lung cancer in its early stages, Israeli researchers are finding small solutions after years of study.

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The most groundbreaking study shows the possibility to prevent the development of melanoma in mice. Researchers from Tel Aviv University tackled what is known as the most aggressive cancer by crafting a new and effective “nano-vaccine.” It’s a brand new approach to cancer treatment, as opposed to common chemotherapy, surgery and radiation. The idea of a vaccine opens a pharmaceutical gateway. Head of the Cancer Research Center, Professor Ronit Satchi-Fainaro led tests to determine how mice, both healthy and diseased, took to the vaccine. For the mice with melanoma, injecting the vaccine showed their immune system continued to fight the diseased cells, and prolonged life. For the mice without melanoma, the vaccine supported prevention of the disease.

As part of a different study on skin cancer uncovered a protein which makes active T cells non responsive, a good sign when regulating exhaustion in certain cells. Led by Professor Cyrille Cohen, a cancer immunologist from Bar Ilan University, the discovery supports scientists in better understanding how to neutralize cells which attack the immune system, a large factor in chronic diseases.

A third recently released Israeli study offers a revolutionary blood test, which is said to diagnose lung cancer in its earliest stages. Savicell, the Israeli startup founded by CEO Giora Davidovits, says that if “cancer is detected at stage 1, there is an 80% chance of survival.” For lung cancer specifically, it is considered the deadliest as it is challenging to diagnose. Most cases are only discovered at stage 4, where there is only 4% chance of survival. Savicell is working on a blood test to change the diagnosis process, because “early detection is life.”

Perhaps a cure for cancer hasn’t yet been found, but many Israeli researchers are uncovering preventive ways to better manage and diagnose the deadly disease, which is still a paradigm shift within the medical field.

Based in the startup city of Tel Aviv, Zo Flamenbaum is a writer and social entrepreneur who dedicates her time to mission-driven projects that empower connection between the many diverse layers of our world. In 2014, she founded School of Shine as a value-based educational space for women who are tired of the ‘default life’ and crave personal freedom through self-expression for more purposeful living.

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