Improving treatment for metastatic colorectal cancer using nanotechnology
Official title: Nanodelivery of FP polymers to improve treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer
Funded at Wake Forest University Health Sciences · NIH-10870118 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to make chemotherapy work better for people with metastatic colorectal cancer by using a special tiny delivery system to send the drug 5-fluorouracil right to the tumor, which could help reduce side effects and improve treatment results.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wake Forest University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Winston-Salem, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $549,986 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA284083-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10870118 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with metastatic colorectal cancer who have not responded well to standard chemotherapy treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage colorectal cancer or those who are not eligible for chemotherapy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the effectiveness of chemotherapy for metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) by developing a nanoscale polymer that delivers the drug 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) more effectively. The approach involves creating a polymer that releases the active form of the drug directly at the tumor site, potentially overcoming resistance mechanisms that limit treatment success. The study will test different formulations to ensure the drug targets malignant tissues while minimizing side effects. By utilizing advanced delivery methods, the research aims to improve patient outcomes in mCRC treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and less toxic treatment options for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with similar nanoparticle delivery systems in cancer treatment, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Wake Forest University Health Sciences
Winston-Salem, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gmeiner, William H. — Wake Forest University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Gmeiner, William H.
Related research
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Population-based view of patient-reported outcomes in adults with metastatic colorectal cancer
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Nanodelivery of FP polymers to improve treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer
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Targeted nanoparticles combining chemotherapy and immune stimulation for advanced colon cancer
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Symptoms and quality of life in adults living with metastatic colorectal cancer
Researchers will follow adults with metastatic colorectal cancer over time to learn what symptoms and quality-of-life issues they experience during treatment and survivorship.
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.