Using plant virus-like particles to deliver cancer treatment

Dual-pronged nano-drug delivery using plant virus-like particles

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-10903775

This study is exploring a new way to help people with triple negative breast cancer by using a plant virus to boost the immune system's ability to fight the tumor, and it also includes testing the treatment in dogs with breast cancer to see how well it works.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-10903775 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on treating triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) by utilizing plant virus nanoparticles to enhance the immune response against tumors. The approach involves injecting cowpea mosaic virus (CPMV) directly into the tumor, which activates the body's immune cells to fight cancer more effectively. The research aims to personalize treatment by targeting unique markers found in each patient's tumor, potentially leading to better outcomes. Additionally, the study includes trials in companion dogs with breast cancer to further understand the treatment's efficacy.

Who could benefit from this research

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

Not a fit: Patients with other types of breast cancer or those who do not have access to the treatment location may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and personalized immunotherapy options for patients with triple negative breast cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results using similar nanoparticle approaches in cancer treatment, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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.
Conditions Breast CancerBreast Cancer Patient
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.