Using natural killer cell-derived vesicles for targeted cancer imaging and treatment
Official title: Engineering Natural Killer Cell Derived Extracellular Vesicular Nanodrug for Tumor Targeted Bioimaging and Therapy
Funded at University of Texas Tyler · NIH-11095375 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how to use special immune cells called natural killer (NK) cells to create tiny delivery vehicles that can send cancer treatments right to tumors, which could lead to better results and fewer side effects for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Tyler NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tyler, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $441,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R15EB036962-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11095375 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with cancer who may benefit from advanced targeted therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those who do not have access to the required treatment facilities may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on harnessing the power of natural killer (NK) cells, which are part of the immune system, to create extracellular vesicles that can deliver cancer therapies directly to tumors. By engineering these vesicles, the research aims to improve the precision of drug delivery and enhance bioimaging techniques for better tumor visualization. The approach involves isolating and utilizing the natural properties of NK cells to target cancer cells effectively, potentially overcoming current limitations in cancer treatment. Patients may benefit from more effective therapies with fewer side effects due to this targeted approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and targeted cancer therapies that improve patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using cell-derived vesicles for targeted therapies, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Tyler
Tyler, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Aryal, Santosh — University of Texas Tyler
- Study coordinator: Aryal, Santosh
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.