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Killing cancer cells with RNA therapeutics

In a mouse study, researchers successfully used RNA micelles to shrink metastasized tumors in lungs by delivering chemotherapy drugs and an RNA molecule that blocks cancer survival. The treatment significantly reduced tumor growth and improved outcomes for mice with colorectal cancer lung metastasis.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateFeb 6, 2026

Mizzou scientists develop a method that could lower medicine costs and contribute to cleaner energy and sustainability

Researchers have developed a novel electrochemistry approach to build new molecules using micelles from naturally occurring amino acids and coconut oil. This breakthrough method could reduce the cost of making medicines by combining solvents, electrolytes, and reaction boosters into one simple tool.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMar 3, 2025

Alkyl-aromatic hybrid micelles formed from emergent umbrella-shaped molecules

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have developed alkyl-aromatic hybrid micelles that exhibit high stability in water and excellent host functions towards aromatic guests. The new amphiphiles feature a linear alkyl-chain flanked by two aromatic panels, forming an alkyl core surrounded by an aromatic shell.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2024

Cancer-selective supramolecular chemotherapy by disassembly-assembly approach

Researchers developed a cancer-selective therapeutic agent that targets cancer cells' unique acidic pH microenvironment, inducing mitochondrial dysfunction and killing only cancer cells. The agent, Mito-SA, forms charge-shielded nano-assemblies that selectively disassemble in the tumoral environment.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateJan 26, 2023

Reliable diagnostics at the tip of your finger

Researchers developed a biosensor using nanostructured and nanoporous surfaces to detect biomarkers in clinical samples, overcoming technical challenges of small sample amounts. The new technology can provide quick and accurate diagnoses for diseases like prostate cancer without needing dilution or preprocessing steps.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 17, 2022

Effect of micellization studied for inhibition of hydrate formation

Researchers from Kazan Federal University discovered that micelle-forming polyurethane inhibitors can effectively inhibit hydrate formation. The study found that the presence of surface-active properties and ability to form micelles can hinder hydrate formation, providing a new mechanism for gas storage and flow assurance.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 23, 2021

Polymeric nanomicelles improve internalization of lipid metabolism modulators in brain cells

Researchers have developed poly-ion complex (PIC) nanomicelles loaded with CPT1A inhibitors to deliver drugs into brain cells, reducing fatty acid oxidation and improving treatment for glioblastoma. The delivery system successfully increased cellular concentration of the cargo and biological activity.

SourceInnovation Center of NanoMedicine·JournalBiomaterials Science·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 3, 2021

News about drug delivery

Researchers at the University of Würzburg have discovered how increasing amounts of active ingredients in polymeric micelles reduce their dissolution and solubility. The study aims to improve drug delivery systems by understanding molecular interactions and potential structural changes to enhance absorption and dissolving capabilities.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateOct 30, 2019

Molecular adlayer produced by dissolving water-insoluble nanographene in water

Researchers from Kumamoto University and Tokyo Institute of Technology developed a method to dissolve water-insoluble nanographene in water using molecular containers. The method successfully produced a highly ordered 2D molecular adlayer on a gold substrate, revealing its potential for next-generation functional nanomaterials.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 5, 2018

Combination pack battles cancer

Scientists have developed a new approach to cancer therapy by combining two synergistic drug components into a dimer, which can be loaded into polymeric nanotransporters at exceptionally high concentration. This method reduces side effects and improves transport and accumulation of drugs in tumors.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMay 29, 2018

Watching nanomaterials form in 4-D

Scientists have developed a novel TEM technique that captures dynamic reactions at the nanoscale, allowing researchers to study material transformations in real-time. This breakthrough enables better control over nanoscale properties and has significant implications for designing materials with desired properties.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalACS Central Science·DateApr 25, 2018

Altered milk protein can deliver AIDS drug to infants

A novel method of altering a protein in milk has been discovered, enabling the delivery of an antiretroviral drug to infants with HIV/AIDS. This breakthrough could greatly improve treatment for the estimated 3.4 million children suffering from the disease.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical Research·DateNov 11, 2014

Bio-inspired assembly of nanoparticle building blocks

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a novel method for assembling gold and silver nanoparticle building blocks into larger structures, inspired by the self-assembly of lipid membranes that surround every living cell. The new technique allows for the creation of ultra-potent cancer drugs and efficient catalysts.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateNov 27, 2006

From Quonset huts to ballerinas

Researchers discovered that surfactant micelles assemble into specific structures on a graphite surface due to van der Waals interactions, overcoming Brownian motion. The dynamic nature of these micelle structures opens new horizons for exploration and potential technological applications.