A CANCER expert has hit on a way to kill tumours in two hours — using light.

The technique involves a single jab with a chemical then a flash of ultraviolet.

3 The technique called 'photodynamic therapy' kills cancer cells in mice in under two hours using a chemical combination and ultraviolet Credit: Getty Images

Cancer cells in lab mice were found to self-destruct, with up to 95 per cent dead in two hours.

Professor Matthew Gdovin revealed the cells — which he injected with the chemical compound nitrobenzaldehyde — turned too acidic to survive.

3 Cancer cells died after the treatment forced 'cell suicide' Credit: Getty Images

He said after patenting his “photodynamic” therapy: “There are many different types of cancers.

“The one thing they have in common is their susceptibility to this induced cell suicide.

“We are thinking outside the box and finding a way to do what for many is simply impossible.”

3 Just one treatment stopped tumours growing, doubling chances of survival Credit: Getty Images

His lab tests showed amazing results against triple negative breast cancer — one of the most aggressive forms.

Just one treatment stopped tumours growing, doubling chances of survival.

Prof Gdovin, of the University of Texas at San Antonio, said that because the treatment is non-invasive it is ideal for hard to reach cancers such as in the spine or heart.

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It could also be used in patients unable to have more radiation therapy after undergoing the maximum safe amount.

US researchers are probing the use of proteins from anthrax to fight tumours.