Scientists kill cancer with pure light – 99% lab success

Factcheck: It’s real, from Rice University researchers (published in Nature Chemistry, Dec 2023).

Aminocyanine dye molecules (used in medical imaging) attach to cancer cell membranes. Near-infrared light triggers “vibronic-driven action”: the whole molecule vibrates in sync at ~1 trillion times per second via plasmonic effects. This mechanical force rips holes in the lipid bilayer, bursting the cell.

99% kill rate on human melanoma in lab tests; 50% tumor-free in mice. Deeper tissue penetration than visible light, no resistance buildup like chemo. Still preclinical (lab/mice only).

Lead researcher: James Tour. Promising mechano-therapy idea.

h/t Truther Speaks