Targeted delivery of engineered nanoparticles to the brain

Homogenized, engineered extracellular vesicles for intracranial targeting

NIH-funded research University of California at Davis · NIH-11078353

This study is working on a new way to use tiny particles to deliver medicine directly to brain cells, which could help improve treatments for brain conditions and make them safer for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California at Davis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Davis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11078353 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating a specialized platform of engineered nanoparticles, specifically extracellular vesicles, that can effectively deliver drugs and imaging agents directly to brain cells. By understanding how these vesicles cross the blood-brain barrier and target specific glial cells, the researchers aim to enhance the precision and effectiveness of treatments for brain conditions. The approach involves homogenizing these vesicles to ensure consistent size and content, which may improve their performance and reduce side effects. Patients may benefit from more effective therapies with fewer complications as a result of this innovative delivery system.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with brain conditions that require targeted drug delivery, such as brain cancer or neurological disorders.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to the brain or those who do not require targeted drug therapies may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for brain diseases with reduced side effects.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using engineered extracellular vesicles for drug delivery, indicating potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Davis, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.