Unlocking the Power: Scientists Uncover Key to Natural Cancer Treatment's Potency

Scientists at The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology have discovered two new enzymes, called "cofactorless oxygenases," which have unique properties that could aid in the development of cancer treatments and other medicines. These enzymes allow bacteria to produce compounds that target and break up DNA, potentially offering new ways to fight infections, viruses, and cancer. The discovery of these enzymes solves a mystery surrounding the potency of a potential antibiotic and anticancer compound called tiancimycin A, and it opens up possibilities for studying and manufacturing complex natural chemicals for medicinal purposes.