A research team from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) has recently developed an innovative mRNA delivery technology capable of selectively delivering therapeutic mRNA to the pancreas. This achievement, published in the journal Advanced Materials, brings new hope for precise treatment of diseases such as pancreatic cancer and diabetes.

Led by Professor Chandrabali Bhattacharya, the team utilized an endogenous targeting lipid nanoparticle (ENDO) platform to achieve 99% pancreatic targeting efficiency. "This is the first time pancreatic-specific delivery has been achieved via intravenous injection," Bhattacharya stated. The technology overcomes previous treatment bottlenecks for the pancreas through a vitamin D receptor-mediated transport mechanism.

First author Ivan Isaac noted: "Traditional insulin therapy requires lifelong management, whereas mRNA therapy has the potential to reverse the condition with fewer injections." This technology not only reduces drug dosage and side effects but also significantly lowers long-term treatment costs for patients with chronic diseases.

The research team is currently collaborating with UNLV's Office of Economic Development to advance commercialization of the technology and exploring expansion of the platform to targeted therapies for other organs such as the brain and heart. Bhattacharya stated: "This research lays an important foundation for the future development of medicine."