In a study published by La Trobe University in Australia, scientists found a protein in the tobacco plant's flower that could destroy human cancer cells.

The University's Biochemistry Department, headed by Mark Hulett and Marc Kvansakul, were able to isolate a protein molecule found in the tobacco ornamental plant's flower called NaD1. After studying its function and molecular structure, they were able to deduce that the NaD1 molecule is the plant's line of defense against fungal infections.

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In their research, th scientists initially tested the molecule's performance against various fungi like yeast.

They then tried exposing the NaD1 molecule to human cancer cells associated with lymphoma and cervical and prostate cancer. What they found was that after exposure to the NaD1, the cancer cells burst.

Using live laser scanning microscope technology, the scientists  were able to see how the NaD1 protein caused the formation of microscopic bubbles in the cancer cells. The formation of these bubbles had the effect similar to swelling or much like the formation of irregular shaped protrusions along the outer edges of the cancer cells.

 The protrusions along the cell membranes led to the cell's explosion; the cancer cells were destroyed.

Dr. Hulett also revealed that these NaD1 proteins had the ability to search and target only the unhealthy cells. "This is the holy grail - to develop specific agents which will only target cancer and not the normal healthy cells," he said.

He added that the effect of the NaD1 on the cancer cells was a completely novel concept.

It must be noted, however that the NaD1 molecule is derived from the flowers of the tobacco ornamental plant, and is not to be mistaken for the plant used for cigarettes, which makes use of the leaves.

This discovery is one great, big step for mankind, experts said. Nevertheless, this will probably take years before more findings could be made and a treatment made available to the public, they added.

TagsCancer, Tobacco, La Trobe University, NaD1, Protein, Molecule, Cells, Lymphoma, Cervical, Prostrate