iLOX Project: Innovative Inhibitors to Fight Breast Cancer

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An innovative oncology project is studying a new approach to breast cancer treatment through the development of lysyl oxidase (LOXs) enzyme inhibitors. Researchers involved in the study have already identified three new promising compounds that have shown efficacy in breast cancer cells.

These enzymes play an important role in the structure of our body's tissues, helping to strengthen and organise the fibres that support cells. However, when present in excess, they can contribute to tumour growth and spread. In the case of breast cancer, LOXs levels, particularly LOXL2, are generally elevated, making this enzyme a key target for new treatments.

Ana Fernandes, the project's principal investigator, explained that this initiative arose from the need to find therapeutic alternatives that could enhance the efficacy of existing drugs, especially for treating advanced-stage breast cancer. The project integrates bioinformatics, computational chemistry, pharmacology, and molecular biology approaches to identify new LOXL2 inhibitors and explore their impact on cellular processes related to tumour growth and metastasis.

Developed by Lusófona University, this project is a clear example of the institution’s commitment to scientific innovation and improving society’s health and well-being.

Production
Ana Azevedo

Image
Cristo Chikale

Editing
Cristo Chikale

Acknowledgements
Health Museum