In a Shanghai lab, scientists have engineered a tiny pill packed with magnetic nanoparticles that can seek out and destroy tumors inside the body without any invasive surgery. After swallowing, the pill releases millions of iron oxide particles coated with antibodies targeting cancer cells.

Once these particles latch onto tumor tissues, doctors apply an external magnetic field that vibrates the nanoparticles, generating intense heat localized only at the tumor site. This magnetic hyperthermia kills cancer cells with surgical precision, sparing healthy tissues entirely.

Animal trials on aggressive tumors showed over 80% tumor shrinkage within days after a single treatment. Importantly, the nanoparticles safely exited the body afterward, avoiding long-term toxicity. This method promises a painless, outpatient alternative to chemotherapy and surgery.

The breakthrough hinges on combining targeted drug delivery, advanced materials science, and magnetic control — a true marriage of nanotech and medicine. The pill form factor could revolutionize cancer treatment accessibility globally, especially in areas lacking surgical infrastructure.

Chinese health authorities are fast-tracking human trials, hoping to bring this “internal heat weapon” to patients within the next two years.