A new treatment using a "Trojan Horse" approach to fight blood cancer is now in use in the Netherlands. Is it truly revolutionary or are there hidden risks?
"Trojan Horse" Therapy Begins Treating Blood Cancer in Humans — Netherlands Takes the First Step
Veritas Times | Health & Science | June 14, 2025
In a historic first, the Netherlands has become the first country to officially start using an advanced “Trojan Horse” style gene therapy to treat blood cancer (leukemia) in humans. The treatment, pioneered by researchers from the Dutch Cancer Institute and international collaborators, is being viewed as both a scientific breakthrough and a clinical challenge.
What is the “Trojan Horse” Therapy?
Inspired by the myth of the Trojan Horse, the therapy uses genetically engineered cells that sneak into the body and activate inside cancer cells only. These artificial cells are designed to detect and destroy leukemia cells without harming the healthy ones.
Unlike chemotherapy, which kills both healthy and cancerous cells, this targeted method minimizes side effects, potentially leading to safer and more efficient treatment.
How It Works: A Brief Analysis
1. Synthetic mRNA molecules are programmed to detect cancer-specific proteins.
2. These molecules are inserted into nanocarriers.
3. Once inside the body, they activate only in cancerous environments.
4. The activated agents then produce toxins that destroy the leukemia cells internally.
Scientists call this a “Trojan Horse” mechanism because the payload lies dormant until it enters the cancer’s territory — then unleashes its attack.
Concerns and Cautions
- While early trials are promising, several oncologists have warned that:
- Long-term side effects are not yet fully understood.
- The therapy may not be suitable for all forms of blood cancer.
- There are still risks of autoimmune responses if the payload affects healthy tissues.
The therapy is currently under Phase II trials, and only a few patients have received it under strict medical supervision.
Why the Netherlands?
The Dutch government has approved compassionate use of this therapy after years of research and strong early clinical results. Known for being a leader in medical innovation, the Netherlands hopes to pave the way for global adoption, pending positive results.
Expert Opinion
“This approach may redefine how we treat cancers, especially those resistant to traditional chemotherapy,” said Dr. Willem Bosman, lead researcher.
However, he added, “It’s not a miracle. We must tread carefully and scientifically.”
Conclusion
The “Trojan Horse” therapy offers hope to thousands suffering from leukemia. But as with every scientific leap, it carries both promise and peril. The world is watching closely.
You can also red: Real Blood Crisis Deepens Globally – Artificial Blood May Be Our Only Hope