A new study shows how an anticancer drug triggers an “outside in” signal that gets it sucked into a cancer cell. The work, published Jan. 29 in Nature Communications, reveals a new signaling mechanism that could be exploited for delivering other drugs.

Many malignant cancers overexpress a protein called P-cadherin, which is embedded in the cell membrane. Because cancer cells have a lot of P-cadherin sticking out of their surface, the protein has been targeted for drug development.

Monoclonal antibodies against P-cadherin can carry a drug payload to the cancer cells. It has not been clear, though, exactly how the antibodies attach to P-cadherin or how they get inside the cancer cell once attached.

Researchers have found that Artemisia herba-alba, a medicinal herb, contains compounds capable of fighting colorectal cancer. The plant extract halted cancer cell growth, disrupted key pathways, and showed potential as a less harmful alternative to chemotherapy.

Scientists from the University of Sharjah have discovered that Artemisia herba-alba, a naturally occurring aromatic herb, contains compounds with potential therapeutic effects against colorectal cancer.

This herb, commonly known as common wormwood, white wormwood, or herba alba, grows naturally in North Africa and the Middle East, where it has long been used in traditional medicine. Local populations have historically relied on it to treat conditions such as bronchitis, diarrhea, hypertension, and diabetes.