Developing light-activated nanomotors for targeted drug delivery and treatment
Official title: In Silico Study and Optimization of Molecular Nanomotors for Membrane Photopharmacology
Funded at California State University Long Beach · NIH-11089455 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how tiny light-activated motors can help deliver medicine more effectively for conditions like cancer and tough infections, aiming to make treatments work better and cause fewer side effects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | California State University Long Beach NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Long Beach, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $147,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R16GM149410-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11089455 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would include patients with cancer or those suffering from infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions that do not involve cancer or bacterial infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating advanced molecular nanomotors that can be activated by light to improve drug delivery and treatment for conditions like cancer and antibiotic-resistant infections. By using computer modeling, the team will study how these nanomotors disrupt cell membranes and induce cell death, which could lead to more effective therapies with fewer side effects. The goal is to enhance drug selectivity and reduce the environmental impact of pharmaceuticals by optimizing these nanomotors for clinical applications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and targeted treatments for cancer and bacterial infections, minimizing side effects and overcoming drug resistance.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of nanomotors in drug delivery is a relatively novel approach, preliminary studies have shown promise in similar applications, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
California State University Long Beach
Long Beach, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tapavicza, Enrico — California State University Long Beach
- Study coordinator: Tapavicza, Enrico
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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.