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Newly engineered gold based molecules look to be safer and more effective at fighting cancer than prominent platinum based therapies. It is especially effective at halting testicular cancer, with a success rate of more than 90%. Now, a study by RMIT University in Melbourne, Australia — the results of which appear in Chemistry: A European Journal — has announced the engineering of four gold based, bioactive molecules for use in cancer treatment. Preclinical trials have shown these molecules to be up to 24 times as effective as cisplatin at killing some cancer cells. They are also better at arresting tumor growth, and they are resistant to other medications, allowing them to remain effective for longer. "Our results show there's incredible potential here for the development of new cancer fighting therapeutics that can deliver lasting power and precision." Says study co-author Neda Mirzadeh. The Molecular Engineering Group is now looking to acquire funding for its next steps: human clinical studies and regulatory approval. (Credits: www.medicalnewstoday.com)

Research shows that adults who spend as few as 4 years in economic hardship could be at risk of accelerated aging in comparison with adults who do not experience periods of poverty. Scientists associate high detection of markers of inflammation, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and IL-6, with many conditions, including infection and cancer. An aging population, particularly in western societies, means that healthcare costs disproportionately affect older adults. This phenomenon has led to a drive-in promoting healthy aging. As such, researchers from the Department of Public Health at the University of Copenhagen in Denmark conducted a study to investigate whether late-middle-aged adults are adversely affected by economic hardship compared with adults of the same age who are not experiencing financial problems. Early aging also means more treatment at an earlier age, and it is a burden both to the individual and the society. With our results, we show that poor finances are a strong indicator of early aging — this knowledge can be used to prevent the problems." Says Rikke Lund. The authors suggest that preventive initiatives that focus on reducing the burden of sustained economic hardship may help decrease the rates of accelerated aging in adults. (Credits: www.medicalnewstoday.com)