A novel treatment method developed by researchers targets lung cancer cells with unprecedented precision, using nanoparticles to deliver chemotherapy drugs directly, potentially transforming cancer care by reducing side effects and improving treatment outcomes.
When these membrane-coated nanoparticles are injected back into the patient, the cell membrane acts as a guide, directing the nanoparticles to the tumor cells with precision. This approach is designed to deceive the patient’s immune system, as the coated nanoparticles mimic the properties of immune cells, avoiding detection and clearance by the body.
“The key advantage of this method lies in its highly targeted nature, which allows it to overcome the limitations of conventional chemotherapy that often lead to detrimental side effects and reduced quality of life for patients,” said co-author Jon Weidanz, associate vice president for research and innovation and a researcher in kinesiology and bioengineering.