Carrier-free targeted delivery of small RNA medicines
Ligand-mediated, vehicle-free delivery of small RNAs
['FUNDING_R01'] · PURDUE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11180486
Developing a way to send stabilized small RNA medicines directly into breast cancer cells to improve tumor control.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | PURDUE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (WEST LAFAYETTE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11180486 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From a patient's perspective, researchers are making chemically stabilized versions of therapeutic small RNAs (like miR‑34a) and attaching tumor-targeting tags so the RNA can enter cancer cells without bulky carrier particles. They plan laboratory tests in cancer cells and follow-up studies in mice with breast tumors to check how long the drug lasts, how well it reaches tumors, and whether it shrinks or cures tumors. Earlier experiments showed promising tumor regression and cures in some mice, so the team will refine the chemistry and targeting to improve durability and dosing frequency. If those preclinical steps go well, the approach could move toward early human testing at research centers.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with breast cancers that overexpress the folate receptor or similar tumor-targetable markers would be the most likely candidates for future trials based on this approach.
Not a fit: Patients whose tumors do not express the targeted receptor or who need immediate standard-of-care treatment are unlikely to benefit from this preclinical work at present.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could enable RNA drugs that home to tumors, last longer in the body, and require less frequent dosing, potentially improving cancer treatment options.
How similar studies have performed: RNA medicines have shown clinical success for liver diseases and mRNA vaccines proved the platform broadly, but carrier-free, tumor-targeted small RNA therapies for solid tumors remain largely preclinical and novel.
Where this research is happening
WEST LAFAYETTE, UNITED STATES
- PURDUE UNIVERSITY — WEST LAFAYETTE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: KASINSKI, ANDREA L — PURDUE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: KASINSKI, ANDREA L
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions: Anti-Cancer Agents, Breast Cancer