NIH-funded research R21 grant

Creating advanced nanoparticles for targeted drug delivery

Official title: Computational Design of Antibody-Drug-Excipient Nanoparticles

Funded at Duke University · NIH-11054576 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is exploring new tiny particles that can carry medicine right to the parts of the body that need it most, making treatments safer and more effective, and it's designed for anyone interested in better ways to deliver medications.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project startApril 1, 2023
Project endMarch 31, 2026
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$192,725
NIH project number5R21EB034443-03
Project IDNIH-11054576 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that could benefit from targeted drug delivery systems, particularly those requiring innovative therapeutic approaches.

Less likely to help

Patients who are not seeking advanced therapeutic options or those with conditions that do not require targeted delivery may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing innovative nanoparticles that can deliver medications directly to specific tissues in the body, enhancing their effectiveness and safety. By utilizing machine learning and novel synthesis techniques, the project aims to create drug-excipient co-aggregates that can carry a higher drug load and be tailored for targeted delivery. The researchers will validate these nanoparticles' targeting capabilities through laboratory and animal testing, ensuring they can effectively reach the intended sites of action.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and safer treatments for various conditions by improving how drugs are delivered in the body.

How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using machine learning and novel nanoparticle designs for drug delivery, indicating a potential for success in this innovative approach.

Where this research is happening

  • Duke University
    Durham, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Reker, Daniel — Duke University
  • Study coordinator: Reker, Daniel

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
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Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.