Using phages to deliver genes for treating aggressive breast cancer

Phage-based therapeutic gene delivery targeting multiple compartments in solid tumors

NIH-funded research Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences · NIH-10986635

This study is testing a new treatment for triple-negative breast cancer using special viruses that can deliver helpful genes directly to the tumor, with the hope of making the treatment work better and improving outcomes for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10986635 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a novel therapy for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), a particularly aggressive form of breast cancer with limited treatment options. The approach involves using bacteriophages, which are viruses that specifically target bacteria, to deliver therapeutic genes directly to the tumor cells. By targeting the tumor microenvironment and the immune cells within it, the research aims to enhance the effectiveness of treatment and potentially improve patient outcomes. The study will explore how these phage-based therapies can overcome the challenges posed by the tumor's immune evasion mechanisms.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer who have limited treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with other subtypes of breast cancer or those who do not have a diagnosis of breast cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment options for patients with triple-negative breast cancer, potentially improving survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of phage-based therapies is a novel approach in this context, similar strategies have shown promise in other areas of cancer treatment.

Where this research is happening

Newark, 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.