The core of this new method for cancer treatment is a special
solution containing tiny iron oxide-based nanoparticles which
are injected directly into the tumor in a minimally invasive
procedure. The nanoparticles are covered with a special coating
so that they remain highly concentrated in the tumor tissue and
do not diffuse out into the surrounding healthy tissue.
A magnetic field is then applied so that the special nanoparticles
oscillate, causing them to warm up and release heat into the
tumor tissue from the inside out.

Using this innovative procedure, temperatures of between 41
and 45°C (106 and 113°F) can be attained in the tumor to
degrade it (“hyperthermia”), or even higher temperatures of
46 to 70°C (115 to 158°F) to destroy it (“thermoablation”).

These temperatures, which can be very precisely controlled, are determined by the amount and concentration of the injected nanoparticles as well as by the strength of the magnetic field which is subsequently applied. By treating the tumor with temperatures in the hyperthermia range, better results can be obtained from concurrent chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Where thermoablation is used, i.e. at temperatures above 46°C (115°F), the cancer cells are destroyed as a direct result of the overheating. Because the heat-producing nanoparticles are entirely concentrated within the tumor, the surrounding healthy tissue is spared.

Areas of application for Nano-Cancer^® therapy

This new proprietary therapy from MagForce can theoretically be
used to treat all kinds of localized solid tumors. Initial regulatory
approval is being sought for glioblastoma, the most aggressive
form of brain tumor. Additional phase I and phase II clinical trials
are currently being conducted for prostate cancer, local
recurrences or residual tumors, esophageal cancer, pancreatic
cancer and breast cancer.

Nano-Cancer® therapy has been undergoing clinical testing on
actual cancer patients since 2003. Most of the patients treated
until now have suffered from the most malignant form of brain
tumor, glioblastoma, which generally results in death within a
short time after diagnosis. The phase II clinical trials involving
this patient group was completed in November. It forms the basis for
the initial European regulatory approval expected in 2010.
(There are no phase III clinical trials for products in medical
technology.) To see an animated illustration of how Nano-Cancer®
therapy works, please click play >>