Drug Delivery
Articles tagged with Drug Delivery
ERASur colorectal cancer trial reaches one-third patient accrual milestone
The ERASur clinical trial is investigating whether total ablative therapy can improve overall survival in patients with newly diagnosed, limited metastatic colorectal cancer. The study has reached one-third patient accrual milestone, signaling strong momentum.
Trial now enrolling seeks to answer key question: Does adding chemotherapy to hormone therapy improve survival for metastatic prostate cancer?
The ASPIRE trial aims to enroll 1,200 participants with advanced prostate cancer and assess the impact of chemotherapy on overall survival and disease progression. Genetic profiling is included to identify patients who benefit most from intensified treatment.
UH professor urges better prevention and care of liver disease to reduce burden
Chronic liver disease in the US costs $41.57 billion, with prescription medication expenditures accounting for nearly half of all-cause healthcare expenditures. Poor adherence to antiviral medications is a key factor in preventing disease progression and treatment, with high out-of-pocket costs increasing non-adherence risk.
Bath researchers join £6.7M program to tackle global health challenges
Researchers Dr Íris Luz Batalha and Dr Maria Shchepinova from the University of Bath have been awarded funding to test new ideas in tackling global health challenges. They will develop precision-targeted therapies for antimicrobial resistance and investigate why treatments for Type 2 diabetes don't work for everyone.
Surface charge and membrane lipid composition define extracellular vesicle (EV) function: Lipid asymmetry enables new quality metrics for EV-based therapeutics
A comprehensive review reveals how phospholipid asymmetry governs EV surface charge, providing a unified framework for classification, functional understanding, and standardization in nanomedicine. The study highlights the importance of membrane lipid composition and surface charge in determining EV function.
Scientists reverse brain aging, with a nasal spray
Researchers developed a nasal spray that reversibly reduces brain inflammation, restores cellular power plants, and improves memory. The treatment bypasses the brain's protective shield through intranasal delivery, suppressing chronic inflammation and promoting successful brain aging.
Drugs at the right place, at the right time
Researchers have combined ion pumps with click-to-release chemistry to enable precise electronic control of drug release for a broader range of therapeutics. This technology allows for targeted local therapy with lower doses, reducing side effects.
Antidepressant unable to prevent chemotherapy-associated nerve damage
A randomized trial found that duloxetine does not prevent painful neuropathy caused by oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy in patients with stage II or III colorectal cancer. The study suggests that duloxetine should only be used for managing existing neuropathy, not prevention.
Terasaki principal investigator Dr. Yangzhi Zhu publishes smart contact lens for real-time IOP monitoring and closed-loop treatment delivery in Science Translational Medicine
Researchers at Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation develop a smart contact lens that monitors intraocular pressure in real time and delivers treatment. The technology has shown promising results in preclinical models and aims to improve quality of life for patients with ocular diseases.
Alliance marks Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Awareness Week
The Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology is enrolling adolescent and young adult cancer patients in various trials, including genetic services and treatment studies. These trials aim to address longstanding gaps in care and improve outcomes for AYAs with cancer.
Researchers find way to treat lung cancer and associated muscle wasting at the same time
A new study from Oregon State University has found a way to treat both lung cancer and associated muscle-wasting cachexia using lipid nanoparticles. The treatment involves loading the nanoparticles with follistatin messenger RNA, which triggers cells to produce the protein, promoting muscle tissue growth while inhibiting tumors.
3D printing could change how cancer drugs reach tumors
Researchers at the University of Mississippi have developed a new method for delivering cancer-fighting drugs using 3D-printed nanocarriers, which can target specific tumor sites and minimize side effects. This innovative approach has shown promising results in killing cancer cells and reducing the impact of traditional chemotherapy.
Chinese researchers discover mechanism to improve drug delivery efficiency
Researchers found that clearing intestinal commensal bacteria improves delivery efficiency of various carriers, including polymeric nanoparticles and viral vectors. This study offers a new approach to enhance therapeutic effects in tumor chemotherapy and gene therapy.
Implantable ‘living pharmacy’ produces multiple drugs inside the body
A new system generates oxygen, sustaining drug-producing cells for weeks. The device, called HOBIT, integrates engineered cells with oxygen-producing bioelectronics, producing three different biologics in a small animal model.
Geographic shifts in early-stage biopharmaceutical innovation
Early-stage drug development has nearly doubled globally over the past decade, driven by a shift from a US-dominated system to a two-hub structure. This change may have implications for scientific workforce development, investment, and patient access to new therapies.
From engineered fungal molecules to drug leads: Chem-bio hybrid synthesis for antiparasitic drug discovery
Researchers have identified and overcome metabolic instability as the key barrier to developing ovalicin, a potent relative of fumagillin. Using chem-bio hybrid synthesis, they created metabolically stable drug candidates that worked in animal models of amebiasis.
New medicine piggybacks onto fat absorption pathways to allow oral delivery and support clinical trial in major depressive disorder
A new approach allows oral delivery of drugs previously requiring injection by piggybacking on natural fat absorption pathways. The medication, GlyphAllo, bypasses the liver's security checkpoint and is absorbed through the gut's lymphatic system, allowing it to enter the bloodstream directly.
Prescription drug promotion by social media influencers
A systematic scoping review found that social media influencer promotion of prescription drugs carries risks of inaccurate or misleading advice. The study emphasizes the need for updated guidelines and digital literacy initiatives to safeguard public health.
Simple ‘cocktail’ of amino acids dramatically boosts power of mRNA therapies and CRISPR gene editing
Researchers have discovered a simple fix to boost mRNA delivery and CRISPR gene editing efficiency by adding three common amino acids to lipid nanoparticle injections, increasing delivery up to 20-fold and efficiency to nearly 90%.
Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology highlights new and open colorectal cancer trials in March
The Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology is spotlighting new trials for colorectal cancer in March, focusing on early detection methods and treatments for treatment delays and loss of appetite. The trials aim to improve patient outcomes, with several enrolling patients with newly diagnosed colon or rectal cancer.
Revolutionary single shot helps with healing after a heart attack
A new injection therapy uses self-amplifying RNA to prompt the body's release of the natural heart-protective hormone ANP for several weeks. This approach aims to reduce harmful scarring, preserve healthy heart muscle and improve heart function after a heart attack.
Light-activated nanoassembly overcomes intracellular barriers and drives anticancer drugs into the cell nucleus with high precision
Researchers developed a light-responsive nanoassembly that enables precise and controllable drug delivery inside tumor cells. The strategy achieves strong tumor suppression while effectively inhibiting tumor spread, without causing noticeable systemic toxicity.
Ultrasound-activated ‘nanoagents’ kill superbugs hiding in biofilms
Researchers design nanoagents to carry antibiotics deep into bacterial infections, releasing them upon gentle ultrasound activation. This approach reduces antibiotic resistance and improves treatment of biofilm-related infections.
How studying yeast in the gut could lead to new, better drugs
Researchers identified genes that are activated when yeast cells are in the gut, suggesting a roadmap for engineering more efficient drug-delivery vehicles. The study found that yeast cells were digesting more lipids than carbohydrates in the gut, highlighting potential modifications to improve efficiency.
Valved holding chambers vary significantly in the treatment of young children with respiratory distress
A new study shows that valved holding chambers used to deliver medication to children with acute respiratory diseases differ markedly in their performance. The choice of device can affect treatment outcomes, with higher delivery devices resulting in lower hospital admissions and better physiological recovery.
Scientists deliver new molecule for getting DNA into cells
Researchers at Tokyo Metropolitan University have created a neutral molecule that can carry DNA into biological cells using a process called annealing. This breakthrough promises more effective therapies by reducing inflammation and improving delivery efficiency.
Weight-loss wonder pills prompt scrutiny of key ingredient
A new study finds salcaprozate sodium may have adverse biological effects on the gut and beyond, including shifts in potentially harmful gut bacteria and elevated inflammatory markers. The research highlights an important gap in understanding the long-term impact of repeated SNAC exposure.
Exploring how the immune system detects drugs coated with ‘stealth’ polymers
University of Missouri conducts first in-person clinical trial for nuclear medicine breakthrough device
The University of Missouri has launched its first human clinical trial using Eye90 microspheres, a radiopharmaceutical breakthrough device manufactured on campus. The study aims to assess the safety and effectiveness of Eye90 in treating unresectable liver tumors, including hepatocellular carcinoma and metastatic colorectal cancer.
Unveiling polymeric interactions critical for future drug nanocarriers
Researchers quantify interactions of P407 micelles in PBS to understand gelation behavior and release mechanisms. The study reveals stronger attractive forces between micelles in saline, affecting gel stability and structural fluctuations.
Gentle implant can illuminate, listen, and deliver medication to the brain
Researchers have developed a long, needle-thin brain electrode with channels that enables neural signal recording and precisely targeted medication delivery across different brain regions. The technology has primarily been developed for basic research but may be important for future treatments in epilepsy and other neurological diseases.
New therapy could make life better for kidney transplant patients
A new study offers hope that kidney transplant patients may one day have a more effective treatment regimen. The Phase 2 pilot study showed improved kidney functioning in all patients who completed the study, with no patients experiencing rejection due to antibodies produced by the immune system.
UH College of Pharmacy expands degree plans to offer doctorate and master of science in population health & pharmacoepidemiology
The UH College of Pharmacy is expanding its graduate program to offer a Doctor of Philosophy and Master of Science in Population Health & Pharmacoepidemiology, addressing a growing demand for training in evaluating medication safety and effectiveness.
Overcoming the solubility crisis: a solvent-free method to enhance drug bioavailability
Researchers developed a solvent-free method to enhance drug bioavailability by transitioning from solid to gas phase. The sealed heating (SH) method increases drug solubility without using organic solvents.
New cancer-killing material developed by Oregon State University nanomedicine researchers
Researchers at Oregon State University developed a new nanomaterial that generates both hydroxyl radicals and singlet oxygen to kill cancer cells. The material showed potent toxicity in multiple cancer cell lines with negligible harm to non-cancerous cells.
Pine bark removes pharmaceutical residues from wastewater – an affordable way to keep antibiotics out of nature
Researchers at the University of Oulu have developed a pine-bark-based water-treatment medium that efficiently removes antibiotics and other pharmaceuticals from wastewater treatment plant effluent. The method uses modified pine bark and combination materials, achieving removal efficiencies in the tens of percent to over 90%.
Targeted therapy shows promise against aggressive brain tumors, alliance trial finds
A national clinical trial found that abemaciclib, an oral cancer drug, may slow tumor growth in patients with aggressive meningiomas with specific genetic mutations. The trial showed promising results, with a median progression-free survival of 10 months and a median overall survival of 29 months.
Advance in pulmonary mRNA vaccine development
Researchers developed a new system that efficiently transfects targeted immune cells, supports antigen presentation and immune cell maturation, and successfully crosses the mucus barrier in lung models. This breakthrough offers a promising alternative to lipid nanoparticles for next-generation pulmonary mRNA vaccines.
No thyme wasted: Harnessing the medicinal benefits of thyme extract With small doses
Researchers developed a method to encapsulate nanodroplets of thyme extract, enabling small doses and avoiding evaporation. The technique demonstrates accurate thyme extract nanodosing is possible and can be extended to other aqueous extracts.
Lifesaving breakthrough in bacterial behavior
Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery about how bacteria swim upstream to cause infections, pointing to new designs for biomedical devices that can prevent contamination. The study found that wider channels with faster counterflows are more prone to invasion, but sharp corner designs can inhibit bacterial growth.
MIT study shows pills that communicate from the stomach could improve medication adherence
Researchers at MIT have designed a pill that can report when it has been swallowed, using a biodegradable radio frequency antenna to communicate with an external receiver. This technology could improve medication adherence for patients who need to take immunosuppressive drugs or treatment for extended periods.
UH pharmacy researcher receives $900,000 CPRIT grant to develop nanodrug that boosts immune system to fight cancer
A new nanodrug called Nano-273 could offer improved survival for patients with pancreatic and lung cancers by activating the immune system and blocking tumor growth. The drug, developed by University of Houston researcher Wei Gao, has shown promising results in early studies.
Study explores why some drug therapies are ineffective for brain tumor patients
Researchers at the University of Plymouth investigate why drugs used to treat other tumours are ineffective against NF2-related schwannoma and meningioma tumours. They explore repurposing clinically tested cancer drugs to target MDR mechanisms, which may lead to effective therapies for patients with these tumours.
Targeting collagen signaling boosts drug delivery in pancreatic cancer
Researchers from Okayama University and Tohoku University have identified a promising way to breach the physical and biochemical barrier created by fibrosis in pancreatic cancer. By blocking collagen signaling through DDR1, they improve drug delivery and enhance treatment response.
Computational framework for therapeutic RNA carrier design
A research team developed a computational framework called Bits2Bonds to design and optimize polymeric RNA carriers. The tool combines molecular dynamics simulations and machine learning to rapidly screen thousands of potential molecules before experimental validation.
Healing the heart after a heart attack
A new patch developed by Texas A&M University researcher Dr. Ke Huang may offer a way to help the heart heal after a heart attack by delivering interleukin-4 directly to damaged heart tissue. The patch uses a microneedle system to promote repair and improve heart function without affecting the rest of the body.
CRISPR breakthrough reverses chemotherapy resistance in lung cancer
Researchers have shown that disabling the NRF2 gene with CRISPR technology can restore drug sensitivity and slow tumor growth in lung cancer. The approach, which targets a master switch for resistance, has potential across multiple tumor types.
International research team awarded €10 million ERC Synergy Grant to revolutionize drug delivery
A team of four scientists from European universities has been awarded €10 million to overcome the challenge of delivering biotherapeutics into cells. They plan to explore a novel approach using covalent chaotropic membrane transport to ferry impermeable molecules into cells.
A new patch could help to heal the heart
MIT engineers have developed a programmable drug-delivery patch that can reduce damaged heart tissue by 50 percent and improve cardiac function. The patch is designed to release different drugs at specific times, promoting healing and regeneration of cardiac tissue.
“Rotten egg” gas could be the answer to treating nail infections, say scientists
Scientists have discovered a promising new treatment for nail infections using hydrogen sulphide, a naturally occurring gas that can penetrate the nail plate efficiently. The research has shown strong antimicrobial activity against a range of nail pathogens, including fungi resistant to common antifungal treatments.
New nanomedicine wipes out leukemia in animal study
Scientists re-engineered a common chemotherapy drug to make it more soluble and effective, targeting cancer cells while leaving healthy tissues unharmed. The new nanomedicine significantly extended survival in animal models of leukemia, showing promise for improved cancer treatment.
Lipid‐based nanoplatforms: Revolutionary tools for hepatology from design to clinical challenges
Researchers have developed lipid-based nanoplatforms (LBNCs) to overcome liver disease treatment barriers, including low drug accumulation and side effects. LBNCs exhibit biocompatibility, versatile drug-loading capacity, and tunable targeting, improving therapeutic effects on fatty liver and HCC.
Opening doors to smarter devices and safer drugs, UH crystals expert controls crystal formation
A UH crystals expert has shown how to bend and twist crystals without physical force, using a molecule called a tautomer. This discovery has potential applications in drug delivery and material properties, such as optoelectronics and soft robotics.
Nanoparticle blueprints reveal path to smarter medicines
Scientists have characterized lipid nanoparticles' internal shape and structure, which correlates with how well they deliver therapeutic cargo. The research provides a blueprint for engineering more effective RNA therapies by matching LNP designs to specific therapies and tissues.
New molecular map reveals how cells control traffic between the nucleus and cytoplasm
A team of scientists has created a detailed model of how cells regulate traffic through the nuclear pore complex, revealing that flexible protein chains create an entropic barrier that admits only properly escorted cargo. This breakthrough sheds light on diseases like cancer, Alzheimer's, and ALS, where this transport system fails.
Human Organ Chip technology sets stage for pan-influenza A CRISPR RNA therapies
A new human lung alveolus chip model enables investigation of viral replication, inflammatory responses, and genetic off-target effects of a novel pan-influenza CRISPR therapy. The study achieved significant reductions in virus load and host inflammatory response after a single administration.
The advent of nanotechnology has ushered in a transformative era for oncology, offering unprecedented capabilities for targeted drug delivery and controlled release. This paradigm shift enhances therapeutic efficacy while mitigating the debilitating side
This review highlights the potential of nanocarriers in cancer treatment, including liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, dendrimers, and inorganic nanoparticles. The combination of these technologies with magnetic hyperthermia and viral nanoparticles offers a promising approach to treating malignant tumors.
Scientists pioneer next-generation ‘nano’ drug delivery system
Researchers have created a new class of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) with complex internal arrangements, expanding their potential for carrying small-molecule drugs, proteins, metal ions, and mRNA. The breakthrough offers flexibility in designing delivery systems for different therapeutic molecules.
Possible breakthrough in the development of effective biomaterials
A research team led by Professor Shikha Dhiman has discovered that the speed of receptors in model cell membranes plays a crucial role in binding to biomaterials. When ligands move at similar speeds, they can bind to receptors, enabling effective tissue engineering and medical applications.