Doctoral researcher Ipeleng Kgosiemang is adamant she will make a difference in the lives of cancer patients with her groundbreaking research.

The Central University of Technology is proud to announce a significant advancement in cancer treatment, specifically targeting triple-negative breast cancer through the innovative integration of nanotechnology and traditional acupuncture techniques.

Ipeleng Kopano Rosinah Kgosiemang at the renowned Centre for Quality of Health and Living in the Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences lab. She is seen here under the microscope where her innovative research began.

This research, led by Doctoral researcher Ipeleng Kopano Rosinah Kgosiemang, under the tutelage of esteemed Professors Mamello Sekhoacha, the University of the Free State and Sitheni Mashele, Central University of Technology, introduced a novel drug delivery system utilising Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles (SPIONs). These nanoparticles are synthesised using an eco-friendly method that incorporates the anticancer properties of the medicinal plant Euphorbia tirucalli.

This groundbreaking method employs electromagnetism to guide chemotherapeutic agents directly to tumour sites. By combining SPIONs with targeted acupuncture points, the researchers have achieved enhanced drug delivery to cancerous cells while minimising damage to healthy tissues and reducing side effects. In experiments with a mouse xenograft model of triple-negative breast cancer, this approach demonstrated superior effectiveness in inhibiting tumour proliferation compared to the conventional chemotherapy drug doxorubicin.

“Cancer therapies have historically been associated with severe side effects due to their inability to selectively target cancer cells. This innovative research addresses these challenges by merging: Nanotechnology: Utilising SPIONs to magnetically direct drugs to tumours,” said Ipeleng.

She added that Traditional Chinese Medicine: Electroacupuncture enhances drug delivery precision through consistent stimulation of acupuncture points, promoting holistic healing while exerting inhibitory effects on tumour growth and metastasis. “This interdisciplinary approach not only advances biomedical technology but also highlights the value of integrating traditional therapies with modern scientific innovations.”

 “The implications of this research are profound. By focusing on precision, sustainability, and accessibility, this novel method offers hope for more effective treatments for aggressive cancers while significantly reducing chemotherapy toxicity. As further development and refinement of this technology continue, it holds the potential to transform cancer care globally. As the Central University of Technology progresses in this innovative research, it reaffirms its commitment to advancing science and improving patient outcomes through the collaboration of exceptional researchers and scholars,” said Prof. Samson Sitheni Mashele, Dean of Health and Environmental Sciences.

Esteemed professors behind Ipeleng Kgosiemang’s groundbreaking research from left: Prof. Mamello Sekhoacha, the UFS, Doctoral researcher Ipeleng Kopano Rosinah Kgosiemang and Prof. Samson Sitheni Mashele, Dean: Health and Environmental Sciences, CUT.