Author: Kasym Kassymkhan
Translator: Uspanova Ainura
Copy editor: Kigbaeva Camila
Scientists from the Far Eastern Federal University (FEFU), Pacific Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry named after G. B. Elyakova (PIBOK FEB RAS) and A.V. The Zhirmun National Scientific Center for Marine Biology (NSCMB FEB RAS) discovered starfish molecules that have an anti-cancer effect. Steroid substances can be used as blockers of neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer's disease).
Steroid substances can reduce the growth and reproduction of cancer cells. Also, these substances do not attack healthy body cells. According to the researchers, these compounds were discovered randomly when searching for lipid molecules of starfish. When the compound was separated into chromatographic plates, these substances were discovered, from which four steroids were created.
The next step will be the creation of molecules with an effective therapeutic property, for this it is necessary to begin the search for new, similar substances from other varieties of starfish.
Sourse: https: //www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2020-06/fefu-ncf062620.php
