In a groundbreaking usage of UV based technologies, Eva Ramón Gallegos, a Mexican scientist from the National Polytechnic Institute of Mexico, has discovered a way to stop HPV virus cells from propagating.
Project Beginning and Objectives
In 2012, Dr. Ramón Gallegos undertook an innovative project to develop a non-invasive treatment for women with premalignant lesions caused by HPV. This work was supported by various academic and health institutions in Oaxaca, Veracruz, and Mexico City, as well as civil organizations.
According to reports, the main objective was to design a method that would allow the elimination of damaged cells without affecting healthy tissues. To achieve this, the team led by the scientist focused their efforts on photodynamic therapy, which combines a fluorescent chemical compound with laser radiation to precisely target infected cells.
Results Supporting Effectiveness
As a result of the research, in June 2018, significant data was obtained regarding the treatment’s efficacy. From a total of 990 women analyzed, 480 patients were selected to receive therapy. Notably, 29 women treated in Mexico City managed to eradicate the virus completely, confirming the procedure’s potential.
Regarding the findings, it was confirmed and evidenced that the therapy is especially useful in low-grade premalignant lesions. However, limitations in its effectiveness were detected when applied to more advanced lesions, which underscores the need to continue research to extend its reach.
How the Treatment Works
According to the doctor, the procedure uses delta-aminolevulinic acid, a drug that, when applied to the cervix, metabolizes into a fluorescent substance that accumulates only in infected cells. Subsequently, a laser beam eliminates these cells without damaging healthy structures.
For this reason, the treatment is personalized and consists of three sessions conducted over a period of 48 hours between each one. Additionally, patients undergo thorough monitoring through tests such as cytology, colposcopy, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR), which allow evaluation of virus elimination and confirm the procedure’s efficacy.
Challenges and Next Steps
Regarding pending challenges, the doctor noted that this project is still in a pilot stage. To maximize its impact, she emphasized the importance of obtaining additional funding and expanding the number of participating patients, especially those with more severe lesions.
Furthermore, it was highlighted that this treatment could be applied in the future not only to combat HPV but also to address other diseases, such as melanoma and breast cancer, areas where photodynamic therapy has shown promising results.
Academic and Professional Background
In addition to her contributions in the research field, Dr. Ramón Gallegos has a solid academic background supporting her career as a scientist. She graduated from the Universidad Veracruzana as a Pharmaceutical Biological Chemist and continued her specialization at the National School of Biological Sciences of IPN, where she obtained her master’s and doctorate in Chemical-Biological Sciences, both with honors.
Similarly, she completed research stays at renowned institutions such as the University of Minho in Portugal and the Center for Research and Advanced Studies (CINVESTAV) of IPN. Since 2001, she has been part of IPN’s teaching and research staff, leading projects focused on biomedicine and molecular biotechnology, areas in which she has made nationally and internationally recognized contributions.