New drug delivery method targeting prostate cancer cells
Official title: Tumor-Activated Dual Payload-Drug Conjugates
Funded at Washington State University · NIH-10947537 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new drug that aims to better treat prostate cancer by delivering two types of chemotherapy directly to the tumor, which could help improve outcomes for men with advanced prostate cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pullman, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $393,401 |
| NIH project number | 1R21CA292338-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10947537 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer who have PSMA-positive tumors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage prostate cancer or those without PSMA-positive tumors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new type of drug that targets prostate cancer cells by using a specific biomarker called prostate specific membrane antigen (PSMA). The approach involves creating a dual drug conjugate that can deliver two different chemotherapy agents directly to the tumor site, potentially improving treatment effectiveness. By activating these drugs at the tumor location, the goal is to enhance the therapeutic impact and provide better outcomes for patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). This innovative strategy aims to offer new treatment options that could extend survival and improve the quality of life for affected patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment options for patients with advanced prostate cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with PSMA-targeted therapies, indicating potential for success with this novel dual drug approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington State University
Pullman, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Berkman, Clifford — Washington State University
- Study coordinator: Berkman, Clifford
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Center for Research in Emerging Infectious Diseases in East and Central Africa Plus
A center-led effort to study and respond to emerging infectious diseases in East and Central Africa, with collaboration in the region and Central America.
-
Center for Research in Emerging Infectious Diseases in East and Central Africa Plus
A national/international research center works to understand and respond to emerging infectious diseases in East and Central Africa, with implications for global health.
-
Surveillance and preparedness for flu and other respiratory pathogens in Kenya
A US-based research grant aims to improve how Kenya detects and prepares for influenza and other respiratory diseases to protect people there and global health.
-
How pre-existing anti-staphylococcal antibodies and B cells can affect vaccines
A study at Washington State University will explore why antibodies and B cells from prior Staphylococcus aureus exposure may weaken or alter responses to vaccines against SA.
-
Music-based, real-time stress relief to support early alcohol recovery
A new mobile program uses just-in-time music listening to help adults in the first 90 days after detox reduce stress and support recovery from alcohol use disorder.
-
Promoting Indigenous Wellness Through Community-Lent Healing and Knowledge
A Native-serving research program collaborates with Indigenous communities to improve wellbeing and relieve harm from opioids and pain by using local strengths and culturally-led approaches.
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.