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Peptide aurB Shrinks Mouse Prostate Tumors with Radiation

5/9/2026

Summary

Story summary

Researchers at University of Illinois Chicago reported that peptide aurB reduced prostate tumor growth in mice when combined with radiation.
The peptide, derived from a bacterial protein of tumor-resident microbes, enters mitochondria and binds ATP synthase to block energy production.
In the preclinical study, the combination therapy caused marked tumor shrinkage without observable toxicity.
The team patented aurB and is preparing to move the treatment into human clinical trials.

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Story summary

Researchers at University of Illinois Chicago reported that peptide aurB reduced prostate tumor growth in mice when combined with radiation.
The peptide, derived from a bacterial protein of tumor-resident microbes, enters mitochondria and binds ATP synthase to block energy production.
In the preclinical study, the combination therapy caused marked tumor shrinkage without observable toxicity.
The team patented aurB and is preparing to move the treatment into human clinical trials.