Developing nanoparticles for better cancer imaging and treatment

Intracellular Self-Assembly of Theranostic Nanoparticles for Enhanced Imaging and Tumor Therapy

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10606546

This study is testing a new kind of tiny particle that can help doctors see and treat prostate cancer better by getting inside the tumor cells, making the cancer drugs work more effectively while reducing side effects.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-10606546 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating a new type of nanoparticle that can improve cancer imaging and therapy. By utilizing a specific enzyme found in prostate cancer cells, the study aims to develop nanoparticles that can be effectively trapped inside tumor cells, enhancing the effectiveness of anti-cancer drugs while minimizing side effects. The nanoparticles will also serve as imaging agents, allowing doctors to visualize the drug's location and effectiveness in real-time. This approach seeks to overcome the challenge of drug resistance in tumors, providing a more targeted and efficient treatment option for patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with prostate cancer who are seeking innovative treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with cancers that do not express the enzyme targeted by this research may not benefit from this approach.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer treatments with fewer side effects and improved imaging capabilities.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using nanoparticles for targeted drug delivery and imaging, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Conditions Anti-Cancer AgentsCancer DrugNeoplastic Disease Chemotherapeutic Agentsanti-cancer drug
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.