Using bacteria to target and treat cancer more effectively
Cancer-specific metabolites as cues to engineer and target anti-tumor therapeutic bacteria
['FUNDING_R21'] · CLEVELAND CLINIC LERNER COM-CWRU · NIH-10671074
This study is exploring a new way to help special bacteria find and treat cancer more effectively by using signals from the cancer itself, which could lead to better and safer treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | CLEVELAND CLINIC LERNER COM-CWRU (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CLEVELAND, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10671074 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how to enhance the targeting of therapeutic bacteria to cancer sites, specifically by using cancer-specific metabolites as signals. The approach involves engineering E. coli bacteria to respond to these metabolites, allowing them to move towards tumors, attach to cancer cells, and produce therapeutic agents directly in the tumor environment. By optimizing genetic circuits within the bacteria, the goal is to improve the efficacy and safety of cancer treatments. Patients may benefit from a more precise and effective bacterial therapy for their cancers.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer or other tumors that produce specific metabolites targeted by the engineered bacteria.
Not a fit: Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those whose tumors do not produce the targeted metabolites may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and targeted bacterial therapies for various types of cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using engineered bacteria for cancer treatment, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
CLEVELAND, UNITED STATES
- CLEVELAND CLINIC LERNER COM-CWRU — CLEVELAND, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: DWIDAR, MOHAMMED — CLEVELAND CLINIC LERNER COM-CWRU
- Study coordinator: DWIDAR, MOHAMMED
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.
Conditions: Breast Cancer, Cancers, neoplasm/cancer