Adelaide University researchers develop mRNA nanoparticles to boost anti-cancer immunity

Researchers at Adelaide University have developed a new method using mRNA technology to reprogram immune cells within tumor environments to strengthen anti-cancer responses. The study, published in Science Advances, utilizes lipid nanoparticles—the same delivery mechanism used in COVID-19 vaccines—to target tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs).

In animal experiments, these nanoparticles were coated with an antibody to recognize the TREM2 protein, which is highly expressed on TAMs. Instead of attacking these cells, the technology reprograms them to be less suppressive, which helps attract cancer-fighting T cells into the tumor. Lead researcher Professor Chunxia Zhao noted that the approach aims to change the tumor environment from within to ensure immune cells can effectively perform their functions.