Using nanoparticles to improve drug delivery for mucinous cancers

Application of mucus modulating multipurpose trypsin nanoparticles to overcome the mucus barrier and deliver mitochondria-targeted anticancer drugs in mucinous carcinoma peritonei

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-10693942

This study is looking at new tiny particles that can help deliver cancer-fighting drugs more effectively to patients with mucinous carcinoma peritonei by breaking through the thick mucus that often makes treatment difficult.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-10693942 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing nanoparticles that can overcome the mucus barrier surrounding mucinous carcinoma peritonei (MCP), a type of cancer that often resists standard treatments. By using mucolytic agents to break down the mucus and enhance drug delivery, the study aims to improve the effectiveness of intraperitoneal chemotherapy. The approach involves creating therapeutic nanoparticles that can retain in the peritoneal cavity longer and penetrate tumors more effectively than traditional chemotherapy drugs. This innovative method could potentially lead to better treatment outcomes for patients with this challenging cancer type.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with mucinous colorectal or appendiceal cancers that have metastasized to the peritoneal cavity.

Not a fit: Patients with non-mucinous types of colorectal or appendiceal cancers may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve treatment options and outcomes for patients with mucinous carcinoma peritonei.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using mucolytic agents and nanoparticles for drug delivery in similar cancer types, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, 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 2026-06-13 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.