Using engineered bacteria to deliver cancer treatments directly to tumors
Engineering tumor-targeting bacteria to sense and deliver therapeutics
This study is exploring how specially designed bacteria can find and deliver medicine directly to cancer tumors, helping to make cancer treatments more effective by targeting the right spots in the body.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10914801 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing bacteria that can specifically target and deliver therapeutic agents to cancerous tumors. By utilizing a 3D multicellular coculture platform, the researchers aim to study how these engineered bacteria interact with cancer cells in real-time. The project involves creating bacterial systems that can sense changes in the tumor environment and respond by producing therapeutic molecules, potentially improving the effectiveness of cancer treatments. This innovative approach seeks to enhance the precision of cancer therapy by ensuring that treatments are delivered directly where they are needed most.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would be patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer who are seeking innovative treatment options.
Not a fit: Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those who do not have colorectal cancer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and targeted cancer treatments, reducing side effects and improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using engineered bacteria for targeted cancer therapies, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Cambridge, United States
- Harvard University — Cambridge, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Harimoto, Tetsuhiro — Harvard University
- Study coordinator: Harimoto, Tetsuhiro
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.