Radiation-activated nanoparticle therapy for lung cancer
Official title: Development of a radiation-activatable nanoparticle for lung cancer therapy
Funded at Athna Biotech, INC. · NIH-11399125 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new, targeted treatment uses radiation to trigger a drug carried by tiny nanoparticles to fight lung cancer, aiming to improve outcomes and reduce side effects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Athna Biotech, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | June 14, 2021 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $1,098,560 |
| NIH project number | 5R42CA257584-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11399125 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) whose tumors express NTSR1 and are candidates for radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy.
✕Less likely to help
If tumors lack NTSR1 expression or cannot safely receive radiation, benefits may be limited.
What this research studies
This grant explores a treatment that delivers a special prodrug inside PEG-PLGA nanoparticles, which release the active drug when exposed to radiation in the tumor. The approach uses a tumor-targeting ligand to bring particles to lung tumors and a radiation-triggered release to enhance cancer-killing effects. By combining radiotherapy with this localized drug activation, the goal is to boost tumor control while minimizing damage to healthy tissue. The study includes preclinical development steps to optimize delivery, activation, and safety before human testing. If successful, this could offer a new option for patients with unresectable non-small cell lung cancer who need better tolerability and efficacy from CRT.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to a more effective and better-tolerated treatment option for lung cancer patients receiving chemoradiotherapy.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research shows promise for radiation-activated prodrugs and targeted nanoparticle delivery, but this exact approach is in early stages.
Where this research is happening
-
Athna Biotech, INC.
Athens, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Xie, Jin — Athna Biotech, INC.
- Study coordinator: Xie, Jin
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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.