Weizmann Institute Discovers Viagra’s Potential to Extend Cancer Patients’ Lives

Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science, in collaboration with Clalit Health Services, have uncovered a previously unknown mechanism by which Viagra (sildenafil) may help extend the lives of cancer patients. Their study, published in the leading journal Cancer Research, revealed that sildenafil alters cholesterol availability within cells, a mechanism that appears to particularly affect cancer cells. Laboratory experiments showed that cancer cells exposed to sildenafil struggled to migrate and form metastases. The effect was enhanced when combined with statins, which inhibit cholesterol production, suggesting a dual approach to limiting cancer cell spread.

The team, led by Professor Ayelet Erez, demonstrated that this mechanism disrupts cancer metastasis by interfering with cellular cholesterol metabolism. Analysis of Clalit’s patient data confirmed significantly improved survival rates among cancer patients using Viagra, especially when combined with statins. Erez emphasized that these findings highlight the importance of metabolic factors and other medications in cancer biology beyond genetic mutations.

Separately, the American company Polypid announced a collaboration with Azurity Pharmaceuticals to market its D-PLEX product for preventing surgical infections in the US and Canada. Azurity will pay Polypid up to $350 million based on milestones and royalties. Polypid’s CEO, Dekel Cechkas-Exelbard, noted the deal was chosen due to Azurity’s hospital presence and development plans for additional indications.

Additionally, Technion researchers are participating in a $35 million Gray Foundation initiative to develop AI-based MRI methods for early detection of ovarian cancer, focusing on identifying iron levels in fallopian tubes. The article also highlights a $100,000 Dolittle Prize awarded to Dr. Julie E. Elie for her work decoding zebra finch bird calls.

These developments reflect ongoing advances in cancer treatment, surgical infection prevention, and early cancer detection technologies.