Using engineered bacteria to improve cancer treatment with radiation therapy
An engineered bacterial reporter gene fusion for radiotheranostics
This study is testing a new way to treat advanced solid tumors using specially designed bacteria that can deliver targeted radiation directly to the tumors, which could help improve treatment results while protecting healthy tissue.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10989026 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new approach to treat advanced solid tumors by using engineered bacteria that can deliver radioactive substances directly to the tumors. The bacteria are designed to act as carriers for radionuclides, which are radioactive isotopes used in cancer therapy. By concentrating these radionuclides in the tumor, the treatment aims to enhance the effectiveness of radiation therapy while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. Patients receiving this innovative therapy may have a better chance of tumor control compared to traditional methods.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with advanced solid tumors who have not responded well to existing therapies.
Not a fit: Patients with early-stage tumors or those who do not have solid tumors may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients with advanced solid tumors, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of radiotheranostics is established, this specific approach using engineered bacteria is novel and has not been widely tested in clinical settings.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cheal, Sarah Marie — Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ
- Study coordinator: Cheal, Sarah Marie
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.