BC cancer breakthrough

Photo: CTV

A deadly mushroom found on Vancouver Island is being studied as a potential cure for cancer.

University of British Columbia researchers are studying the death cap mushroom, and chemist David Perrin says he's reached a breakthrough.

The mushroom is about 100 times more poisonous than cyanide, and Perrin has created a synthetic version of its toxin, which he says can be controlled more easily and is less toxic on the human liver.

“This can possibly provide a new, efficient treatment for a lot of cancers," research student Kaveh Matinkhoo told CTV.

The team is now working to get the toxin to latch onto antibodies that can target cancer cells.

"There’s a lot of wow around this toxin," said Perrin.

The mushrooms have been spotted earlier than usual this year around Victoria, prompting a warning from Island Health.

– with files from CTV Vancouver Island