Oulu-based research group developing breakthrough treatments for cancer and inflammatory diseases

The group studies the structure, function, and regulation of proteins — focusing in particular on specific cellular signalling proteins. By modifying these proteins, they have identified promising avenues for developing more precisely targeted therapies.

In connection with this research, Lehtiö’s group has already patented three inventions.

One of these involves new methods that may accelerate the development of cancer and antiviral drugs by providing researchers with more effective tools for analysing protein function.

The second patent concerns a new compound that may assist in cancer treatment by inhibiting the function of certain enzymes within cancer cells. This compound operates via a different mechanism than currently available cancer drugs and could offer more precise and effective treatment options for specific types of cancer.

The third patent covers a novel chemical compound capable of blocking several enzymes that play a key role in the development of cancer and inflammatory diseases.

“I hope that some of the proteins we are studying will prove to be suitable drug targets and that entirely new types of drugs will make it to clinical use. Current cancer medications often have significant side effects, so we are aiming for more targeted and patient-centred treatments,” says Lehtiö.

Read more (blog post in Finnish): Lari Lehtiö tiimeineen etsii uusia mahdollisuuksia syövän ja tulehdussairauksien hoitoon proteiineista