Flipping a Switch and Making Cancers Self-Destruct

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Article Summary

Researchers at Stanford have developed a new molecule that has the potential to lead to drugs that can target cancer cells and make them self-destruct. This groundbreaking discovery aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by addressing the goal of ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages (SDG 3).

Introduction

Within every cancer are molecules that promote uncontrolled growth. The researchers at Stanford aimed to connect these molecules to others that induce self-destruction in cancer cells. This innovative approach supports SDG 3 by focusing on improving cancer treatment and reducing mortality rates.

Research Findings

In a recent study published in the journal Nature, Dr. Gerald Crabtree and his colleagues at Stanford reported their successful creation of molecules that target BCL6, a protein essential for cancer cell survival. By designing a dumbbell-shaped molecule, they were able to guide it towards cell-death genes and activate them, leading to irreversible cell death. This breakthrough discovery contributes to SDG 3 by advancing cancer research and potentially providing new treatment options for patients.

Potential Impact

The new approach developed by the researchers at Stanford could be a significant improvement over existing methods of blocking BCL6 molecules. By rewiring only a portion of BCL6 molecules, it may be possible to effectively kill cancer cells. This targeted approach aligns with SDG 3 by promoting precision medicine and reducing harm to healthy cells.

Future Possibilities

The concept developed by Dr. Crabtree and his team has the potential to be applied to half of all cancers with known mutations that drive growth. This promising avenue of research supports SDG 3 by expanding treatment options and increasing survival rates for cancer patients. However, further development and clinical trials are necessary before this approach can be used as a viable treatment option.

Conclusion

The discovery of a molecule that can activate cell-death genes in cancer cells represents a significant step forward in cancer research. This breakthrough aligns with SDG 3 by contributing to the development of innovative treatments and improving overall health outcomes for individuals affected by cancer.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

   • Target 3.4: By 2030, reduce by one-third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being.
   • Indicator 3.4.1: Mortality rate attributed to cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, or chronic respiratory disease.

2. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

   • Target 9.5: Enhance scientific research, upgrade the technological capabilities of industrial sectors in all countries, in particular developing countries, including, by 2030, encouraging innovation and substantially increasing the number of research and development workers per 1 million people and public and private research and development spending.
   • Indicator 9.5.1: Research and development expenditure as a proportion of GDP.

3. SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

   • Target 16.6: Develop effective, accountable, and transparent institutions at all levels.
   • Indicator 16.6.1: Primary government expenditures as a proportion of original approved budget, by sector (or by budget codes or similar).

Analysis

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

The SDGs that are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article are SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, and SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

Based on the article’s content, the specific targets that can be identified are:

– Target 3.4: By 2030, reduce by one-third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being.

– Target 9.5: Enhance scientific research, upgrade the technological capabilities of industrial sectors in all countries, in particular developing countries, including, by 2030, encouraging innovation and substantially increasing the number of research and development workers per 1 million people and public and private research and development spending.

– Target 16.6: Develop effective, accountable, and transparent institutions at all levels.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

Yes, there are indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets. These indicators are:

– Indicator 3.4.1: Mortality rate attributed to cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, or chronic respiratory disease.

– Indicator 9.5.1: Research and development expenditure as a proportion of GDP.

– Indicator 16.6.1: Primary government expenditures as a proportion of original approved budget, by sector (or by budget codes or similar).

The article discusses the development of a new molecule that could lead to drugs for cancer treatment. This is relevant to SDG 3, which aims to improve health and well-being. The target 3.4 specifically focuses on reducing premature mortality from non-communicable diseases like cancer. The indicator 3.4.1 measures the mortality rate attributed to such diseases.

The article also highlights the scientific research and innovation involved in developing the new molecule. This connects to SDG 9, which focuses on industry, innovation, and infrastructure. The target 9.5 aims to enhance scientific research and increase research and development spending. The indicator 9.5.1 measures research and development expenditure as a proportion of GDP.

Additionally, the article mentions the collaboration between researchers and the development of effective institutions. This relates to SDG 16, which aims to promote peace, justice, and strong institutions. The target 16.6 focuses on developing effective and accountable institutions at all levels. The indicator 16.6.1 measures primary government expenditures as a proportion of the original approved budget.

Overall, the article addresses multiple SDGs and their respective targets and indicators, highlighting the importance of health, innovation, and institutional development in addressing cancer treatment and research.

4. Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators