Engineered nanoparticles could deliver better targeted cancer treatment to lymph nodes
Phys.org
February 21, 2026
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Engineered nanoparticles designed to target lymph nodes could revolutionize cancer immunotherapy by delivering treatments more effectively while reducing side effects. Scientists at McGill University and the Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Institute have developed a novel method using these nanoparticles, which show promise in preclinical studies by improving treatment outcomes and minimizing adverse reactions compared to conventional approaches.
The lymphatic system plays a critical role in immune responses, making it an ideal target for cancer immunotherapy. The nanoparticles are engineered to accumulate in draining lymph nodes near tumors, where they deliver therapeutic agents directly to immune cells responsible for detecting and attacking cancerous cells. This targeted approach enhances the specificity of immunotherapy, potentially leading to more effective tumor control.
In preclinical models, the nanoparticle delivery system demonstrated improved tumor regression and reduced systemic toxicity, such as weight loss or organ damage often associated with traditional treatments. By concentrating therapeutic effects at lymph nodes, this method avoids off-target damage to healthy tissues, addressing a significant limitation of current cancer therapies.
The study highlights the potential of nanotechnology in creating more precise and less toxic cancer treatments. This advancement could pave the way for improved patient outcomes by optimizing immunotherapy delivery, offering a promising avenue for future clinical applications.
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Originally published on Phys.org on 2/21/2026