NIH-funded research R21 grant

Targeted gene editing in cancer cells using a specialized delivery system

Official title: Ligand-directed therapeutic CRISPR/Cas gene editing in tumor cells

Funded at Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences · NIH-10993673 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is exploring a new way to use gene editing to target cancer cells more precisely, which could lead to better treatments with fewer side effects for patients like you.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES)
Project startDecember 1, 2023
Project endNovember 30, 2025
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$183,494
NIH project number5R21CA286340-02
Project IDNIH-10993673 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are patients with specific types of cancer that express unique cellular markers.

Less likely to help

Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those whose tumors do not express identifiable markers may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates a novel approach to gene editing in tumor cells by utilizing a specialized delivery system that combines a modified adeno-associated virus with CRISPR technology. The goal is to create targeted therapies that specifically edit cancer cells while minimizing effects on healthy cells. By using a unique phage capsid to direct the gene editing tools precisely where they are needed, this method aims to enhance the effectiveness of cancer treatments. Patients may benefit from more effective therapies that reduce side effects associated with traditional treatments.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and safer cancer treatments that specifically target tumor cells.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using targeted gene editing approaches in cancer therapy, indicating potential for success with this novel method.

Where this research is happening

  • Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
    Newark, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Pasqualini, Renata — Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
  • Study coordinator: Pasqualini, Renata

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.