Protein-based delivery of RNA medicines for cancer
Targeted RNA delivery using ribonucleoprotein
They are developing a protein carrier to deliver RNA drugs that can switch off cancer genes for people with tumors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11306609 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are building a new carrier made from natural RNA-binding proteins to carry mixtures of small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) to tumors. Because these proteins are neutral or slightly negatively charged, the carrier may avoid sticking to the wrong cells and reach targets more reliably than existing charged nanoparticles. The team will assemble the protein–RNA complexes with targeting pieces, test delivery and safety in lab-grown cells and in mouse models, and refine the design for potency and stability. If successful, this work would support future clinical testing of RNA therapies for cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with solid tumors driven by specific, targetable genes could be candidates for future trials based on this delivery approach.
Not a fit: People whose cancers lack RNA-targetable drivers or who cannot enroll in experimental trials are unlikely to benefit in the near term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could enable more precise delivery of RNA therapies to tumors, lowering side effects and improving effectiveness.
How similar studies have performed: Several siRNA drugs are already FDA-approved, but this specific protein-based delivery method is novel and has not yet been tested in humans.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gao, Xiaohu — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Gao, Xiaohu
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.