New method to isolate tiny particles for delivering RNA
Official title: Novel, Scalable Approach for Isolation of Exomeres for RNA Delivery
Funded at Michigan State University · NIH-11062542 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring tiny particles called exomeres that help cells talk to each other by carrying important messages, with the goal of finding better ways to use them in treatments that deliver helpful genetic material to patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Michigan State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (East Lansing, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $110,518 |
| NIH project number | 5R21GM154180-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11062542 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that could benefit from RNA therapies, such as cancer or genetic disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have conditions treatable with RNA-based therapies may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel class of nanoparticles called exomeres, which play a crucial role in cell communication by delivering microRNAs (miRNAs) between cells. The project aims to develop a scalable approach for isolating these exomeres, which are smaller and have unique properties compared to traditional extracellular vesicles. By understanding how exomeres are formed and how they can be used to deliver therapeutic RNA molecules, the research seeks to enhance the effectiveness of RNA-based treatments. Patients may benefit from improved therapies that utilize these nanoparticles for targeted delivery of genetic material.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective RNA-based therapies for various diseases.
How similar studies have gone: While the concept of using nanoparticles for RNA delivery is established, the specific focus on exomeres represents a novel approach that has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Michigan State University
East Lansing, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Walton, Stephen Patrick — Michigan State University
- Study coordinator: Walton, Stephen Patrick
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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.