Kuala lumpur: University of Technology Sydney (UTS) Chair Professor in Nanomedicine Bingyang Shi and international collaborators have developed a novel nanoparticle-based approach aimed at targeting disease-causing proteins in the body.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the perspective article published in Nature Nanotechnology describes engineered nanoparticles, known as nanoparticle-mediated targeting chimaeras (NPTACs), which can be customised to bind and degrade specific proteins linked to diseases such as cancer and dementia. Professor Shi stated that these nanoparticles are designed to guide harmful proteins into the body's natural recycling system, where they can be broken down and removed. He emphasized that while the research is promising, it remains at the preclinical stage, requiring further studies before any clinical application is possible.

The technology builds on the concept of targeted protein degradation, a growing field in biotechnology. It holds the promise of expanding the range of proteins considered "undruggable". Early preclinical experiments have shown potential against key disease targets, including EGFR and PD-L1, which play roles in tumour growth and immune evasion.

Key advantages of the approach include tissue- and disease-specific targeting, the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, a modular design for multiple protein targets, and compatibility with Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved nanomaterials. Professor Shi highlighted that NPTACs are still in the experimental phase and that the team is seeking strategic partners for further development, regulatory review, and potential therapeutic applications in oncology, neurology, and immunology.

Professor Shi noted that this research illustrates the potential of nanoparticle-based platforms not just as delivery vehicles but as active therapeutic agents. The work involved collaboration with Professor Kam Leong of Columbia University and Professor Meng Zheng of Henan University.