Scientists have developed an LED-based therapy with tin oxide nanoflakes that eliminates up to 92% of skin cancer cells in lab tests, causing no harm to healthy tissue and providing a more affordable, targeted alternative to standard cancer treatments.
October 20, 2025
Source:
UT News - University of Texas at Austin
Breakthrough in Light-Driven Cancer Therapy
Scientists from The University of Texas at Austin and the University of Porto have introduced a new therapy using everyday LEDs and tin oxide (SnOx) nanoflakes. This approach selectively destroys cancer cells but spares healthy tissue. Testing in laboratory conditions showed the method eliminated up to 92% of skin cancer cells and 50% of colorectal cancer cells within 30 minutes of treatment (UT News, ScienceDaily).
How the Method Works
Utilizes near-infrared photothermal therapy (NIR-PTT).
Tin oxide nanoflakes absorb LED light and convert it into heat.
Heated nanoflakes cause thermal ablation of cancer cells.
No significant harm was observed in healthy skin cells, showing high precision (ACS Nano).
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Precision and Advantages of the LED-Nanoflake Approach
Why This Matters
This technique stands out compared to conventional photothermal therapies, which typically rely on expensive lasers and gold-based nanoparticles. LEDs are both affordable and portable, making advanced cancer treatment more accessible worldwide (UT Austin News). Tin, used for the nanoflakes, is cheaper and more abundant than precious metals usually used in nano-medicine.
Potential for Broader Access
May benefit low-resource settings lacking costly equipment.
Uses biocompatible, non-toxic materials.
Could allow future home-based or point-of-care therapies.
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Source:
UT News - University of Texas at Austin
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