Midnight Killer (A Short Novel) COMPLETED

SECOND SHOCK

***

"Dr. Williams, our analysis of the first sample revealed key genetic mutations that affect signaling pathways involved in these compounds. There appear to be fewer pathways active in this sample."

I look at the monitor and read the papers to find targeted therapies to disrupt these processes. The mutations in this cell are slacking, unlike the first sample we made last time. I sighed and nodded. "How about this one?" I asked my research lab partner, pointing at the beaker.

She nodded and took the last sample to mix the new compounds we've got. "We'll try our best."

"Missense mutations are often hard to predict," Dr. Lorenzo commented while looking at the data. Tiningnan niya ako, asking for my opinion.

"Hmm, these mutations seem less reactive than the previous sample," I murmured, tapping my chin as I studied the data on the screen.

My research partner leaned in, their brow furrowed in concentration. "Maybe we need to adjust the concentration or try a different delivery method?" they suggested.

"Hmm... silent mutations are least likely to affect protein function, but if wala paring changes, I guess it's time to try the best method, which is to substitute the amino acids for this one. If the change is to a similar or non-critical amino acid, the mutation protein may continue to function baka may chance na." I said before moving to human trials, we need to conduct pre-clinical trials to ensure safety and efficacy, kaya ang haba ng process at wala paring result dahil ang hirap makahanap ng right-match for the right cell to cure such cancer and tumors without affecting the healthier ones.

"Dr. Williams, the president called for a private meeting with our team," my secretary said.

"We'll be there at 5," I answered. She nodded and left.

"Bakit daw?" tanong ni Dr. Lorenzo.

I shrugged. "To ask for development? Maybe..."

He sarcastically barks a laugh. "As if it'll take us a day for development."

"As if ganun lang kadali, 'di ba?" I added, and we both shook our heads.

"Any changes?"

Umiling ako. "I checked the volunteers and carefully monitored the effects of the new drug yesterday, but... it's still the same." The team conducts rigorous clinical trials with human participants, analyzing the drug's effectiveness and potential side effects. To no avail, mas lumala lang.

"Don't worry about it. Sagot naman ng gobyerno lahat," makahulugang sagot niya.

"That's why we're conducting this research so we can develop potential drug candidates that can selectively target cancer cells without harming the healthy ones," I added. We all proceeded to the lab to synthesize various compounds for the result.

Now that the team is working closely with regulatory agencies to gain approval for our new cancer treatment, we are receiving positive feedback on our research. Some may not agree, but at least there's already been improvement.

"FDA might visit next week to oversee our production."

"We're not done yet?" Dr. Lorenzo said.