In a groundbreaking study published in the journal *Bioactive Materials* (translated as “生物活性材料” in Chinese), researchers have uncovered a promising new avenue for treating two of the most aggressive and deadly cancers: hepatocellular and pancreatic cancer. The study, led by Junfeng Zhang from the Institute of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery at Chongqing General Hospital, explores the potential of magnesium-related alloys, particularly an aluminum-magnesium (Al-Mg) alloy, as a novel therapeutic strategy.
Magnesium-related alloys have long been recognized for their biocompatibility and bioactivity, making them ideal candidates for medical implants such as biliary and pancreatic duct stents. However, their potential as antitumor agents has remained largely unexplored until now. Zhang and his team systematically characterized the physicochemical properties and anticancer activities of various magnesium-related alloy powders, identifying the Al-Mg alloy as the most potent candidate.
The findings revealed that Al-Mg rods exhibited stronger antitumor efficacy compared to pure magnesium, with more controllable degradation. In vitro and in vivo assays confirmed that Al-Mg significantly inhibited the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma and pancreatic cancer. “The results were quite striking,” said Zhang. “We observed a marked reduction in tumor growth and proliferation, suggesting that Al-Mg has significant potential as an antitumor material.”
To understand the underlying mechanisms, the researchers conducted integrated metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses. They found that Al-Mg activates AMPK signaling and suppresses purine and pyrimidine metabolism, leading to metabolic reprogramming that limits tumor cell proliferation. This metabolic shift is a critical discovery, as it provides a mechanistic framework for developing magnesium-related alloys for local oncologic intervention.
Furthermore, single-cell and spatial transcriptomic analyses delineated Al-Mg-sensitive tumor cell subpopulations and mapped their spatial distribution within pancreatic cancer tissues. This detailed mapping offers valuable insights into the heterogeneous nature of tumors and could pave the way for more targeted and effective cancer therapies.
The implications of this research extend beyond the medical field, with potential commercial impacts for the energy sector. Magnesium-related alloys are already used in various industrial applications, and the discovery of their antitumor properties could open new avenues for their use in medical and energy-related technologies. “This research not only advances our understanding of cancer treatment but also highlights the versatility of magnesium-related alloys,” Zhang noted.
As the scientific community continues to explore the potential of these alloys, the findings published in *Bioactive Materials* provide a compelling case for their integration into clinical practice. The study’s comprehensive approach, combining physicochemical characterization, biological assays, and advanced omics technologies, sets a new standard for research in this field. With further development, magnesium-related alloys could become a cornerstone of personalized cancer therapy, offering hope to patients with hepatocellular and pancreatic cancers.