Singapore discovered how to kill new cancer cells

Scientists at the National University of Singapore (NUS) have discovered a way to destroy cancer cells by making them "hungry" for energy.

>>>New therapy, effective in cancer treatment

On May 17, NUS said the discovery paved the way for more effective cancer treatment. Scientists' research revolves around a type of drug compound called BPTES .

Cancer cells are dividing

Scientists from the NUS Department of Biological Sciences and the Institute of Biological Mechanism, said the compound could take away the energy of cancer cells and prevent them from developing into tumors. The compound is conducted pre-clinical tests as a potential drug.

According to NUS, this is the first time a group of researchers has shown evidence of how a drug-conducting compound prevents tumor formation. Further developing on new findings, NUS group also obtained positive results on a two-drug regimen, including BPTES.

The research team found that BPTES killed kidney cancer cells and breast cancer more effectively.

NUS said the next step would be to conduct research to determine if the combination of drugs is more effective. The team will also learn how to make BPTES more effective, as well as how to reduce its side effects.