Using machine learning to create polymers for delivering genetic material into cells

Machine-guided design of chaperone-mimetic polymeric carriers for ribonucleoprotein delivery

NIH-funded research Colorado School of Mines · NIH-11139097

This study is working on new materials that can help deliver important molecules into blood-forming stem cells more safely and effectively, which could lead to better and more affordable gene therapies for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionColorado School of Mines NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Golden, United States)
Project IDNIH-11139097 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing innovative polymers that can effectively deliver ribonucleoproteins (RNPs) into cells, particularly hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs). By utilizing machine learning techniques, the team aims to enhance the safety and precision of genome editing by ensuring that the RNPs maintain their proper structure during delivery. The project seeks to overcome challenges associated with traditional delivery methods, which can be costly and inefficient, by creating polymers that are easier and cheaper to produce. Patients may benefit from improved gene therapies that are more effective and less expensive due to these advancements.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with genetic conditions that could benefit from advanced gene editing techniques.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions that do not involve genetic components or those who are not candidates for gene therapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and affordable gene therapies for patients with genetic disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using machine learning for polymer design and gene delivery, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Golden, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.