Scientists Turn Cancer’s Own Bacteria Against It in Breakthrough Therapy

University of Illinois Chicago researchers developed aurB, a bacteria-inspired peptide derived from a microbial protein found in tumor-associated microbes.

aurB targets cancer cell mitochondria and disrupts ATP production by interfering with ATP synthase.

In preclinical prostate cancer studies, aurB slowed tumor growth, with the strongest effect seen when combined with radiation therapy.

The approach showed low observed toxicity and could offer a new option for cancers that resist existing treatments.