Indian Scientists Develop Targeted 'Smart' Cancer Drug RK-251

Researchers from IASST and IIT-Guwahati developed RK-251, a 'smart' drug designed to activate specifically within cancer cells by exploiting high levels of reactive oxygen species.

Preclinical studies published in the Journal of Medicinal Chemistry showed the drug effectively targeted triple-negative breast cancer cells while sparing healthy tissues in zebrafish embryo models.

The drug works by releasing an anticancer compound called NBDHEX upon activation, though further studies are required to confirm safety and efficacy before human clinical trials can begin.