Washington, July 26 : Scientists studying new ways to combat skin cancer A
team led by an Indian-origin scientist is examining certain molecules that may
help strengthen the effectiveness of sunscreen to prevent skin cancer.
The researchers led by distinguished professor Chandradhar Dwivedi, head of the
Pharmaceutical Sciences Department in the College of Pharmacy at SDSU are
analyzing a number of molecules that can protect against skin cancer and may
even help undo the sun’s damage.
“We are looking at a number of molecules that can be used with sunscreen or
without sunscreen. They are not simply blocking the radiation, but they are
reversing the damage caused by radiation,” said Dwivedi.
“We have been saying for a long time that prevention is the best medicine. We
have to make the effort to prevent the disease before we treat it,” he added.
Alpha-santalol molecule is one of the main components of oil of sandalwood.
Dwivedi studied this molecule for nearly 15 years.
“This product has been very effective in preventing skin cancer caused by
chemicals and by UV radiation,” said Dwivedi.
“We have done our work in animal models,” according to the researcher. “Now it’s
ready to go for testing in humans.”
“Best of all, this molecule has a very nice fragrance, so people will not mind
using it.
“It smells nice, and at the same time, it prevents chemically-caused or
UV-induced skin cancer,” he added.
Another molecule called sarcophine-diol, made from a product called sarcophine
coming from coral found in the Red Sea is being studied for over the past five
years.
Sarcophine-diol is effective in micrograms, as compared to milligrams, for other
chemo-preventive products.
Dwivedi in collaboration with SDSU assistant professor Hesham Fahmy and a
chemist look forward to combining products that protect against skin cancer to
provide additive/synergistic effects on the protective properties of these
molecules.
“We hope to include it in sun screen or lotion. Apply it once, and you are set
for the day. We are hopeful that it will not only prevent skin cancer but may
actually treat skin cancer,” said Dwivedi. (ANI)
