Using DNA nanoparticles to deliver antibiotics and disrupt harmful bacterial biofilms
Official title: Enzyme-Powered Self-Propelled DNA Nanoparticles for Disruption and Antibiotic Delivery in Topical Biofilms
Funded at George Mason University · NIH-11098415 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help antibiotics reach tough infections, like those found in wounds, by using tiny DNA particles that can move around on their own to deliver the medicine right where it's needed, which could lead to better healing for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | George Mason University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fairfax, United States) |
| Project start | August 6, 2022 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $208,794 |
| NIH project number | 5R21EB029572-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11098415 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with chronic wounds or skin lesions affected by bacterial biofilms, particularly those who have not responded well to standard antibiotic treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with infections not associated with biofilms or those who do not have chronic wounds may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative DNA-based nanoparticles that can actively navigate through complex biological environments to deliver antibiotics directly to bacterial biofilms. These biofilms, which form on wounds and skin lesions, are notoriously difficult to treat due to their protective extracellular matrix. By utilizing self-propelled DNA nanoparticles powered by enzymes, the project aims to enhance the effectiveness of antibiotic treatments against these stubborn infections. Patients may benefit from improved healing and reduced infection rates as a result of this targeted delivery system.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria, significantly improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of self-propelled particles in medicine is a relatively novel approach, preliminary studies have shown promise in similar applications, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
George Mason University
Fairfax, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Moran, Jeffrey Lawrence — George Mason University
- Study coordinator: Moran, Jeffrey Lawrence
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.