Mirror-image cysteine blocks growth of certain cancers by targeting cancer cell mitochondria
Researchers have identified D-cysteine, the mirror form of the amino acid cysteine, which is taken up by certain cancer cells and inhibits the mitochondrial enzyme NFS1, disrupting iron-sulfur cluster production and essential cellular processes. In mouse models of aggressive breast cancer, this approach slowed tumor growth with minimal effects on healthy cells, suggesting a highly targeted therapy—though human dosing and safety remain to be determined.
