Scientists Unveil Breakthrough Method to Destroy Cancer Cells with Near-Infrared Light

Scientists have developed a groundbreaking method to destroy cancer cells using a new generation of molecular machines called “molecular jackhammers.” Researchers from Rice University, Texas A&M University, and the University of Texas discovered that stimulating aminocyanine molecules with near-infrared light caused them to vibrate collectively, breaking apart the membranes of cancer cells.

Aminocyanine molecules, already used in bioimaging, proved highly effective in destroying cancer cells in tests, achieving a 99 percent success rate in cultured cells and producing promising results in mice with melanoma tumors. This approach, activated by near-infrared light, could potentially treat cancer in bones and organs without surgery. The researchers are now exploring other molecules with similar applications in cancer treatment.