Scientists have created inhalable therapeutics for lung cancer using mucoadhesive protein-based nanoparticles.
A team of researchers from POSTECH and Kyungpook National University has introduced an innovative inhalable delivery system for lung cancer treatment that employs mucoadhesive protein nanoparticles, taking inspiration from the strong adhesion properties of marine mussels. This project was led by Professor Hyung Joon Cha (from the Department of Chemical Engineering and the Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, specializing in Medical Science) along with Dr. Yeonsu Jeong (also from the Department of Chemical Engineering) at POSTECH, and in partnership with Professor Yun Kee Jo (from the Department of Biomedical Convergence Science and Technology at the Advanced Institute of Science and Technology) at Kyungpook National University.
Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), which represents 85% of lung cancer cases, poses significant treatment challenges due to difficulties in detecting it early. Traditional cancer therapies are mostly delivered through intravenous methods, which can negatively affect both cancerous and healthy tissues, often resulting in severe side effects. Consequently, inhalable therapies are emerging as a favorable option as they allow for targeted drug delivery directly into the lungs. However, the success of this method has faced considerable challenges due to the lung’s mucosal barriers and immune responses. To address these issues, joint research has led to the creation of a mucoadhesive protein nanoparticle specifically designed for lung cancer therapy.
This strategy utilizes the extraordinary adhesive qualities of marine mussel proteins, known for their underwater attachment capabilities. By mimicking the oxidation-reduction mechanisms present in foot protein type 6 (fp-6), the team created an advanced form of foot protein type 1 (fp-1) by adding cysteine, resulting in a biomaterial with improved adhesive properties and targeted drug delivery within lung cancer environments. These nanoparticles display remarkable therapeutic effectiveness by allowing for selective drug release while preventing release in healthy tissues, thereby reducing potential side effects. Additionally, the natural biocompatibility, biodegradability, and immunocompatibility of marine mussel proteins promise excellent safety profiles and considerably extend the retention of cancer-fighting drugs, thus enhancing their effectiveness.
In studies involving animal models of lung cancer, the nanoparticles designed by the research group, along with their accompanying anti-cancer medications, proved successful in restricting the spread and invasion of cancer cells after being nebulized and delivered directly to the lungs, where they adhered to the mucosal membranes over extended periods. This breakthrough could facilitate greater patient access to lung cancer treatments, as the straightforward inhalation method of drug intake might allow for self-administration at home. Moreover, this technique has the potential to significantly enhance the quality of life for patients by decreasing the frequency of hospital visits.
Professor Hyung Joon Cha, the lead researcher from POSTECH, remarked, “Our study’s results may drastically improve both the accuracy and effectiveness of lung cancer therapies, while greatly benefiting patients’ overall well-being.”
The results of this research were published online in Biomaterials, a leading international journal dedicated to biomaterial studies. This research was made possible by support from the National Research Foundation (NRF) Mid-Career Researcher Program, the Ministry of Health and Welfare’s Dental and Medical Technology R&D Program, and the Pan-Governmental Regenerative Medicine Technology Development Program.
