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Biochemical and biological characterisation of fig latex for potential therapeutics in Human Papillomavirus (HPV) related cervical cancer
Previous research has found that fig latex has a role to play in preventing cervical cancer progression by inhibiting the growth of cervical cancer cells through the upregulation of tumour suppressor proteins.
This project will result in a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms of fig latex and an investigation into the ability to complement existing therapies for patients suffering from HPV induced cervical cancer.
Expected impact
Cervical cancer is a highly prevalent disease, with HPV implicated in the aetiology of most cervical cancers. Current therapies for cervical cancer can lead to excessive damage of healthy tissue.
Not only does this project hold significant promise for the treatment of various other cancers and HPV itself, it has the potential for a huge positive impact on both the scientific community and society at large.
The project's focus on exploring alternative treatments for HPV-induced cervical cancer with fig latex is both innovative and promising. Moreover, the project's dedication to seeking a more precise and less harmful treatment for cervical cancer reflects a genuine desire to improve the quality of life for patients.
Currently, the HPV vaccine is administered nationally to all young girls in the UK. However, HPV is also found in men1, and furthermore the HPV virus has been identified in cancers other than cervical cancer2. Dr Ashrafi has worked closely with the NHS to build awareness of the HPV virus and, as a researcher, he is at the forefront of clinical translation, working to change policies through his studies. This is truly research with significant implications for public health.
This project, with its emphasis on ethical research and potential for medical breakthroughs, closely aligns with one of our core missions; to find a cure for cancer and improve healthcare. The project corresponds with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3, which is focused on “Good Health and Well-being”. This alignment is evident in the project's expected outcome, to improve the treatment of HPV-induced cervical cancer, supporting and positively impacting the health and quality of life for those affected by cervical cancer.
References
Project summary
Exploring the use of fig latex for the potential treatment of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) induced cervical cancer.
Cervical cancer is a widespread disease, primarily caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a very common group of viruses which, in some circumstances, can give rise to cancers. Notably, HPV is present in over 90% of cervical cancer cases1.
Existing treatments for cervical cancer, such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy, can cause significant damage to healthy tissues. This is because these treatments are unable to differentiate between cancerous and healthy cells. These treatments are designed to identify and eliminate rapidly dividing cells, a common trait in tumour cells. This means that all rapidly dividing cells, even those which are healthy such as those in bone marrow and hair follicles are also targeted. Consequently, patients often experience well-documented side effects such as hair loss, nausea, fatigue and a weakened immune system.
This project is dedicated to exploring the use of fig latex for treating HPV-induced cervical cancer and understanding its healing properties. Fig latex, a substance derived from the unripe fruits of fig trees (Ficus Carica) at the time of harvesting, has a historical application in traditional medicine in Middle Eastern countries, where it has been used to treat warts - a skin infection caused by HPV.
In 2008, a Nobel prize was awarded to Harald zur Hausen, for the discovery of the relationship between HPV and cervical cancer. By successfully identifying both HPV-16 and HPV-18, the two types commonly known to cause cervical cancer, Prof Zur Hausen paved the way to the HPV vaccine.
After Prof Zur Hausen’s fascinating discovery, Dr Ashrafi, the lead researcher of this project, continued to study HPV-induced cervical cancer. He made the significant connection between the traditional treatment of HPV-induced warts with fig latex and the use of fig latex for the treatment of HPV-induced cervical cancer.
Previously, fig latex has demonstrated anti-cancer effects without causing any harm to healthy cells2 and preliminary studies have identified fig latex’s promise for treating, curing and preventing HPV-related cervical cancer3. Furthermore, fig latex has demonstrated increased selectivity towards cancer cells compared to normal cells suggesting the potential for more precise and effective treatment in targeting cancer cells.
References
The research team
Dr Hossein Ashrafi, an Associate Professor and the lead investigator, received his Ph.D. from the Beatson Institute for Cancer Research at the University of Glasgow in 1998, where he focused on the viral causes of cancer. In that same year, he was offered a postdoctoral fellowship in the Medical Oncology Laboratory at Glasgow University's Medical School.
Dr Ashrafi's deep knowledge of viral oncology and molecular pathology is indispensable for the successful execution of the project. At Kingston University London, he will oversee the day-to-day molecular analysis work.
Dr Hossein Ashrafi, an Associate Professor and the lead investigator, received his Ph.D. from the Beatson Institute for Cancer Research at the University of Glasgow in 1998, where he focused on the viral causes of cancer. In that same year, he was offered a postdoctoral fellowship in the Medical Oncology Laboratory at Glasgow University's Medical School.
Dr Ashrafi's deep knowledge of viral oncology and molecular pathology is indispensable for the successful execution of the project. At Kingston University London, he will oversee the day-to-day molecular analysis work.
Science Card not only enables us to fund our project more rapidly, but can also assist in increasing vital awareness about HPV - not just amongst the general public, but also within the scientific community.
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