UP scientists explore marine sponge compounds as potential treatment for metastatic breast cancer

A team of researchers from the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute (UP MSI) has identified a potential breakthrough in the fight against metastatic breast cancer.

- ELLALYN DE VERA-RUIZ

Led by marine scientist Dr. Gisela P. Concepcion, the all-female team found that a compound derived from the Philippine blue sponge (Xestospongia sp.), called renieramycin M (RM), when combined with the chemotherapy drug doxorubicin (Dox), significantly reduced tumor size in mice while also minimizing the toxic side effects typically associated with chemotherapy.

The study was conducted with Dr.

Lilibeth Salvador-Reyes, Zildjian Acyatan, Shalice Susana-Guevarra, Myra Ruth Picart, and Eliza Belen.

According to a post published on the UP website, the World Health Organization reported that breast cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, with 2.3 million people diagnosed in 2022.

The Philippines, in particular, has one of the highest breast cancer incidence rates in Asia.

In a 2023 forum, Philippine Cancer Society President Dr. Corazon Ngelangel noted that around 65 percent of breast cancer cases in the country are diagnosed at an advanced or metastatic stage, significantly lowering the survival rate.