Research findings lead by Prof. Eliezer Flescher of The Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University reported that a compound derived from the jasmine flower could be the key to a new effective therapy for cancer treatment.

The substance, known as jasmonate (or methyl jasmonate) has been found to be responsive to blood cancers and solid tumors as demonstrated in preclinical studies and early first-in-man studies.

According to Prof. Fletcher:

"The jasmonate compound is used widely in agriculture and in cosmetics. Proven to be non-toxic, it has the same regulatory status as table salt. That and the fact we are working on a natural chemical gives us a good starting point for launching a new drug."

The jasmine-based cancer drug is being developed by Sepal-Pharma (licensed Fletcher's research from Ramot, the technology transfer arm of Tel Aviv University) - a promising new biotech company where Fletcher serves on the advisory board.

The said drug is targeted to be on the US market within the next four years.

Read more from American Friends of Tel Aviv University.