Betancor is leading an innovative research project that aims to use enzymes and nanoparticles to develop new cancer therapies. His research seeks to reduce the side effects of current chemotherapy treatments by remotely activating enzymes directly at the tumor site.
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The professor's work focuses on biocatalysis, a field of biotechnology that uses enzymes and microorganisms as "biocatalysts" to convert one type of molecule into another. These enzymes are extremely efficient and precise in their transformations, making them potentially useful in a wide variety of applications, from industrial production to medicine.
In particular, Betancor has been working on the development of an innovative approach to cancer therapy that aims to reduce the side effects of chemotherapy. Together with biochemist Valeria Grazú, who is based in Spain, Betancor has developed a nanoparticle that incorporates a specific enzyme. This enzyme can be remotely activated at the tumor site to generate chemotherapeutic agents directly in that area, which would allow for a more localized and effective attack on the cancer, minimizing damage to healthy tissues and the adverse effects that typically accompany traditional chemotherapy.
The development of this approach has not been without its challenges. Betancor’s team has had to overcome numerous technical hurdles, such as creating nanomaterials with the right properties for use in biomedicine.
Throughout the process, they also had to find ways to prevent the nanoparticles from aggregating in the culture medium and fine-tune them so that they could function properly in animal tumor models.
After years of work, the team has succeeded in demonstrating that the technology has the potential to shrink tumors in mice and is on track to move into clinical trials.
One of the most notable aspects of his work is interdisciplinary collaboration. Betancor has worked with experts from various fields, including cell biology, immunology, medicine, and engineering. This international network of collaboration has been key to overcoming barriers and advancing research, highlighting the importance of teamwork in contemporary science.
Betancor also emphasizes the importance of funding for science. His project has received support from grants and research funds in both Uruguay and Spain, which has enabled progress at every stage of development. His message is clear: science does not advance on its own, and financial support is crucial for researchers to continue innovating and overcoming the obstacles that arise on the path toward solutions that can change lives.