Keeping chemotherapy nanoparticles out of healthy organs
Reducing Off-Target Accumulation of Chemotherapeutic Nanomedicines
Seeing if a short immune signal can prevent chemotherapy nanoparticles from building up in healthy organs for people with cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11291790 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers plan to use a naturally occurring immune signal (IFN-λ) or virus-like particles given before nanoparticle chemotherapy to 'tighten' healthy tissues so nanoparticles are less likely to collect there. The team showed in mice that this approach lowers drug levels in normal organs while leaving tumor delivery intact, and they will map the best dose, route, and timing for the effect. They will measure drug distribution to organs and tumors, track organ and skin toxicity, and test whether the approach improves survival in tumor-bearing models. These experiments aim to identify safe schedules and conditions that could be tested in patients in the future.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with solid tumors who receive or may receive nanoparticle-based chemotherapy (for example, liposomal formulations like Doxil®) would be the most likely candidates for related clinical testing.
Not a fit: Patients treated with non-nanoparticle chemotherapies, those with certain immune system disorders, or those who cannot receive an added immune-modulating dose may not benefit from this approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could reduce chemotherapy side effects and allow more drug to reach tumors, potentially improving treatment outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Early animal experiments already showed reduced drug accumulation in healthy organs and improved survival, but applying this approach in people has not yet been done.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Anchordoquy, Thomas — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Anchordoquy, Thomas
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.