Summary:
The «MucOncoBots» project aims to use nanobots to transport a specialized drug for the treatment of peritoneal pseudomyxoma (PMP), a rare disease characterized by mucus-producing tumors in the peritoneal cavity.
The nanobots will not only act as drug transporters but will also propel themselves towards their target, surmounting the mucus barrier along the way. The development of this novel therapy with mucolytic capability and improved drug administration efficacy could have a positive impact, not only in treating peritoneal pseudomyxoma (PMP) but also in addressing other conditions where the mucosal barrier obstructs effective therapeutic intervention. These pathologies include approximately 15% of colorectal tumors and 5% of lung tumors, among others. Furthermore, this therapy could find applications in treating chronic inflammatory lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cystic fibrosis, where the mucus barrier also poses a significant challenge for the effective drug administration.
The project originated from the clinical immersion program, fostering collaboration between IBEC doctoral students and clinical specialists, allowing them to address relevant medical questions and transfer research findings into clinical practice. Dr. Elena Élez highlights the importance of such initiatives in combining technology and medicine to tackle unresolved medical needs effectively.
Samuel Sánchez, an ICREA Research Professor at IBEC, and leader of the Smart nano-bio-devices group, has been awarded by the European Research Council (ERC) for a Proof of Concept Grant to advance his nanorobots’ targeting capabilities for mucinous tumors.
Article written by IBEC Barcelona
27/07/2023
Source:
IBEC Barcelona
https://ibecbarcelona.eu/samuel-sanchez-receives-erc-proof-of-concept-grant-to-target-mucinous-tumors-with-his-nanorobots/