Understanding how certain peptides help deliver RNA to treat oral cancer
Official title: Delineating the mechanisms of filopodia-mediated intracellular delivery of siRNAs via peptide carriers towards the development of a molecular targeted therapy for oral cancer
Funded at Medical University of South Carolina · NIH-10789264 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain tiny proteins can help deliver special treatments called siRNAs into cancer cells, especially for people with oral and throat cancers, to make these treatments work better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project start | September 5, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $404,132 |
| NIH project number | 1R21DE033510-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10789264 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with oral or oropharyngeal cancer who may benefit from innovative RNA-based therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cancers unrelated to oral or oropharyngeal regions may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how specific peptides can enhance the delivery of small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) into cancer cells, particularly for oral and oropharyngeal cancers. The study focuses on the role of filopodia, which are tiny projections on the surface of cells that help in the uptake of these therapeutic molecules. By exploring the mechanisms behind this process, the research aims to develop more effective treatments that can overcome the biological barriers that typically hinder RNA delivery in cancer therapy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective targeted therapies for patients with oral cancer, improving treatment outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using peptide carriers for RNA delivery, indicating that this approach may lead to significant advancements in cancer treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
Medical University of South Carolina
Charleston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jakymiw, Andrew George — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Jakymiw, Andrew George
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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.