Exploring Free Radical Dynamics in Oncology

A Call for Collaboration with Quantum Nuova

Abstract: Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) play a dual role in oncology, acting as drivers of tumor progression and mediators of therapeutic efficacy. Quantum Nuova’s single-cell free radical analysis offers a groundbreaking approach to studying ROS dynamics at a granular level. This paper hypothesizes that targeted measurement of free radicals can provide new insights into cancer biology and treatment strategies. However, further data and collaboration are necessary to validate and expand the applications of this technology. We invite researchers and institutions to partner with Quantum Nuova in this endeavor.

Introduction

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are crucial signaling molecules that influence cellular function and homeostasis. Their dual role in cancer biology—promoting tumor progression while also mediating therapy-induced cytotoxicity—makes them a key focus in oncology research. However, the interplay between ROS and cancer remains incompletely understood.

Quantum Nuova’s quantum sensing platform offers single-cell resolution insights into free radical dynamics, excluding non-radical ROS like hydrogen peroxide. We hypothesize that precise measurement of free radicals can reveal previously unrecognized pathways in cancer development and therapy response, ultimately leading to more effective treatment strategies.

This paper outlines the potential applications of Quantum Nuova’s technology and seeks collaboration to validate its utility and expand its scope.

Hypothesis

We propose that:

1. Free radical dynamics, as opposed to total ROS, are critical determinants of cancer cell behavior and therapy resistance.

2. Real-time, single-cell monitoring of free radicals using Quantum Nuova’s platform can:

• Identify novel therapeutic targets.

• Improve patient stratification for ROS-modulating therapies.

• Reduce off-target effects by tailoring treatment regimens.

Key Challenges and Research Questions

1. Free Radical Behavior in Tumors

• How do free radicals differ across cancer types and within heterogeneous tumor microenvironments?

• What role do specific free radicals, such as superoxide or hydroxyl radicals, play in therapy resistance?

2. ROS-Modulating Therapies

• Can targeted manipulation of free radical levels enhance the efficacy of chemotherapies and immunotherapies?

• What are the best combinations of pro-oxidant therapies and antioxidant inhibitors to exploit cancer vulnerabilities?

3. Technology Validation

• How accurately does Quantum Nuova’s platform measure free radicals compared to traditional methods?

• What are the limitations of excluding non-radical ROS like hydrogen peroxide in understanding oxidative stress?

Proposed Collaborative Studies

1. Oncology Applications

Objective: Assess the role of free radicals in cancer progression and treatment response.

• Methods: Use Quantum Nuova’s platform to monitor free radical levels in tumor biopsies and cell cultures.

• Potential Partners: Cancer research institutes, clinical oncologists, and pharmaceutical companies.

2. CAR-T Cell Production

Objective: Evaluate how free radicals impact CAR-T cell functionality during GMP production.

• Methods: Analyze free radical generation at each production stage to identify steps associated with T-cell exhaustion.

• Potential Partners: Biotech companies specializing in immunotherapy.

3. Organ Transplantation

Objective: Investigate the role of free radicals in ischemia-reperfusion injury and graft rejection.

• Methods: Monitor free radical levels during ex vivo organ perfusion and post-transplantation recovery.

• Potential Partners: Transplantation researchers and hospitals with perfusion facilities.

Technology Overview: Quantum Nuova’s Relaxometry Platform

Single-Cell Free Radical Measurement Using NV Center Nanodiamonds

Quantum Nuova’s platform employs nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in nanodiamonds to measure free radicals with exceptional precision. The system’s unique ability to detect unpaired electron spins makes it ideal for real-time, single-cell analysis of free radicals.

Advantages:

1. Non-invasive detection with high spatial and temporal resolution.

2. Exclusion of non-radical ROS, such as hydrogen peroxide, for more specific data.

3. Compatibility with live-cell studies and clinical samples.

Call to Action

We believe Quantum Nuova’s platform has the potential to revolutionize cancer research and treatment by providing precise, real-time data on free radical dynamics. However, realizing this potential requires collaboration.

We invite:

• Researchers interested in oxidative stress and ROS biology.

• Clinicians seeking new diagnostic or therapeutic tools.

• Biotech companies exploring ROS-modulating therapies or CAR-T cell production.

Together, we can:

1. Validate the utility of Quantum Nuova’s technology.

2. Expand its applications across oncology, transplantation, and beyond.

3. Uncover new therapeutic avenues by understanding the intricate dynamics of free radicals in disease.

Please contact us at info@qtsense.com or fill in the form, to discuss potential collaborations and explore how Quantum Nuova can support your research goals.

Collaborations are not free of costs.

References

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2. Liou GY, Storz P. Reactive oxygen species in cancer. Free Radic Res. 2010;44(5):479-496.

3. Pelicano H, Carney D, Huang P. ROS stress in cancer cells and therapeutic implications. Drug Resist Updat. 2004;7(2):97-110.

4. Trachootham D, et al. Targeting cancer cells by ROS-mediated mechanisms: A radical therapeutic approach? Nat Rev Drug Discov. 2009;8(7):579-591.

5. Dickinson BC, Chang CJ. Chemistry and biology of reactive oxygen species in signaling or stress responses. Nat Chem Biol. 2011;7(8):504-511.

6. Kawalekar OU, et al. Distinct signaling of CD28 and 4-1BB costimulatory domains in CAR-T cells. J Clin Invest. 2016;126(10):4077-4089.

7. Hosgood SA, et al. Normothermic perfusion for kidney preservation. Transplantation. 2016;100(3):348-354.

8. Hemelaar SR, Williams OA, Schirhagl R. Nanodiamonds as biomarkers for biological applications. Nat Rev Mater. 2021;6(9):772-787.