Tissue implant technology treats cancer in 60 days, can reduce mortality rate by 50%

Scientists at Rice University (USA) are working to develop an advanced cancer treatment system that can reduce the mortality rate from this disease by 50%. The project has received $45 million in funding from the Medical Advanced Research Projects Agency.

The goal of the research is to develop “sensor-and-response implant” technology to improve the outcomes of immunotherapy for difficult-to-treat cancers.

“Instead of treating a patient the way we normally would, we would use a minimally invasive procedure to implant a small device that continuously monitors the cancer and adjusts the immunotherapy in real time,” said Omid Weiseh, a bioengineer at Rice University.

The implant, called a hybrid molecular manufacturing regulator (HAMMR), would operate on a self-contained basis, similar to an insulin pump for diabetics. The device would exchange data via a smartphone.

The implant is expected to be used for a short time, killing cancer cells in just 60 days. “Today’s therapies treat cancer as a static disease. Our technology will provide real-time data around the tumor, allowing for the development of more effective treatments,” said Dr. Amir Jazaeri.

The research team includes experts from 20 laboratories in seven US states. The first clinical trial will test the effectiveness of the implant in treating recurrent ovarian cancer. Scientists hope to begin clinical trials of the new technology in humans within the next five years.