Indian scientists have unveiled a streamlined technique for creating nanoscale gold semi-shells with a distinctive cup-like shape, designed for heat-based cancer therapy. This breakthrough is the result of collaboration among prominent Indian research institutions.
In a significant advancement in cancer treatment research, these scientists have developed an innovative and simplified method to produce gold nano-cups with exceptional photothermal therapy (PTT) capabilities. The specially engineered PEGylated semi-shells can effectively target and eliminate cancerous tumors using heat, providing a minimally invasive and highly efficient alternative to conventional therapies. This innovation, spearheaded by researchers from INST Mohali, IIT Bombay, and Tata Memorial’s ACTREC, holds the promise of greatly enhancing survival rates for patients with metastatic breast cancer.
Why It’s Newsworthy
On June 17, 2025, the Press Information Bureau (PIB) announced that Indian researchers have published their findings in the Nature group journal *Communications Chemistry*. They introduced a groundbreaking one-step colloidal synthesis method for creating gold semi-shells (SS) with a nano-cup structure. This advancement represents a significant step forward in the use of photothermal therapy for treating advanced cancers, particularly breast tumors.
About the Discovery
This innovation was developed by INST Mohali (DST) in partnership with IIT Bombay and ACTREC–Tata Memorial Centre.
Published in: Communications Chemistry, a peer-reviewed journal from the Nature group.
Key Innovation: A one-step synthesis process for PEGylated semi-shells (SS) utilizing a biocompatible ZIF-8 MOF template.
How It Works
ZIF-8 crystals are etched with ascorbic acid (vitamin C), while gold nanoparticles simultaneously grow on their surface, creating nano-cup structures. These semi-shells absorb near-infrared (NIR) light and convert it into localized heat, effectively destroying tumor cells.
Objectives and Benefits
Objective: To offer a minimally invasive, heat-based treatment for cancer.
Biocompatibility: Utilizes non-toxic agents, ensuring a safer application.
Therapeutic Efficacy: Effectively eliminates metastatic breast tumors in animal models with high precision and minimal risk of relapse.
Significance of the Discovery
This method replaces toxic, multi-step, and high-temperature synthesis techniques. It broadens the potential for advanced cancer treatments in India and opens the door for chemo-photothermal therapies.
