Scientists have made a key breakthrough for treating respiratory diseases by developing a new drug-delivery system that transports genetic therapies directly to the lungs, opening promising possibilities for patients with conditions like lung cancer and cystic fibrosis. (Illustration provided by Gaurav Sahay, OSU College of Pharmacy)

Scientists have made a key breakthrough for treating respiratory diseases by developing a new drug-delivery system that transports genetic therapies directly to the lungs, opening promising possibilities for patients with conditions like lung cancer and cystic fibrosis.

Scientists created and tested more than 150 different materials and discovered a new type of nanoparticle that can safely and effectively carry messenger RNA and gene-editing tools to lung cells. In studies with mice, the treatment slowed the growth of lung cancer and helped improve lung function that had been limited by cystic fibrosis, a condition caused by one faulty gene.

Researchers also developed a chemical strategy to build a broad library of lung-targeting lipids used in the nanocarriers. These materials form the foundation for the new drug-delivery system and could be customized to reach different organs in the body.

The streamlined synthesis method makes it easier to design future therapies for a wide range of diseases. These results demonstrate the power of targeted delivery for genetic medicines. We were able to both activate the immune system to fight cancer and restore function in a genetic lung disease, without harmful side effects.

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Topics:
Drug Delivery Medical Nanotechnology Product Development

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