Besides the immune cells (that infiltrate the tumour site from the bloodstream) the TME consists of a variety of other cells (fibroblast and endothelial cells) in addition to a range of growth factors that activate and promote growth of tumour cells.

Among the immune cells is a group of cancer-killing cells called CD8+T cells.

As the microenvironment returns to the tumour-directed hostile state, triggered by NLGP, the population of T cells shoots up, thereby aiding in restriction of the cancer. NLGP also shields the T cells from developing a non-reactive state (called anergy).

The study published in peer-reviewed PLOS ONE states that these killer T cells (produced in NLGP treated tumour-bearing mice) exhibited a greater number of molecules with the power to destroy the cancer cells, compared to the T-cells from mice that were not treated with NLGP.

"Examination of non-toxic NLGP on human cancer patients is awaited. But if we get clearance to treat cancer patients with NLGP, intramuscular injection might be an effective route," Baral said.

"Initial results are very encouraging. It has been found that it can arrest the progress of the tumour cell growth, particularly without any major or serious adverse event.

"However, we have to take up this molecule with different regulatory bodies, particularly with the Drug Controller General of India, for their approval...Once it is approved, we can take up this in human trial," said Jaydip Biswas, director, CNCI.

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