Our Science

Nanoparticle-delivered,
Ultrasound-activated,
Platinum-based Chemotherapy
introduction

The Future of Chemotherapy

At NUP-CTx, we are at the forefront of a revolutionary approach to chemotherapy. Our cutting-edge technology combines the precision of nanoparticles with the power of ultrasound to deliver platinum-based drugs directly to cancer cells, minimizing side effects and enhancing treatment efficacy.

how it works

How Our Technology Works

Our Approach

The NUP-CTx Approach

Our innovative approach starts by transforming aggressive platinum-based chemotherapeutics, such as cisplatin and oxaliplatin, into safe and stable prodrugs through the integration of aliphatic chains into their structure. These prodrugs are then encapsulated within specially designed nanoparticles, which also incorporate a tetrapyrrolic sonosensitizer, such as hemoglobin.


NUP-CTx Approach

These nanospheres are infused directly into the patient’s bloodstream. Their nanoscale size endows them with inherent tumor-targeting capabilities, allowing them to preferentially accumulate in areas with leaky vasculature and poor lymphatic drainage - characteristics typical of tumor tissues, known as the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect. Importantly, these nanoparticles are engineered to respond to ultrasound radiation, which triggers the conversion of the platinum-based prodrug. When exposed to ultrasound at the tumor site, the prodrug is activated, releasing the potent chemotherapeutic agent directly into the tumor. This targeted approach not only facilitates tumor eradication but also minimizes systemic exposure, significantly enhancing the treatment's efficacy.

Scientific Validation

Our approach is backed by rigorous preclinical research and data. In mouse models of colorectal cancer, our technology not only halted tumor growth but also significantly shrank and, in some cases, eradicated tumors. These promising results set the stage for our upcoming clinical trials.

Scientific Validation
Proof-of-Concept

Successful Proof-of-Concept with our Nanospheres

Our approach has shown significant success in proof-of-concept experiments with colorectal cancer in mouse models. These studies demonstrated substantial intra-tumor accumulation of our nanospheres and, most importantly, achieved nearly complete tumor eradication.

Biodistribution of NUP-CTx nanospheres
Tumor growth inhibition

Biological properties of NUP-CTx nanospheres studied in a CT26 tumor-bearing mouse model. Left: Biodistribution inside the mouse model after intravenous injection, showing that the vast majority of the injected nanospheres accumulated at the tumor site. Right: Therapeutic efficiency of NUP-CTx nanospheres compared to cisplatin treatment and control treatment. Tumors treated with the NUP-CTx approach were nearly fully eradicated. (n = 3-5. Data are presented as mean ± standard deviation. Figures modified from Liang G, Sadhukhan T, Banerjee S, et al. Reduction of Platinum(IV) Prodrug Hemoglobin Nanoparticles with Deeply Penetrating Ultrasound Radiation for Tumor-Targeted Therapeutically Enhanced Anticancer Therapy. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl. 2023;62(22):e202301074. doi:10.1002/anie.202301074)

key benefits

Key Benefits of NUP-CTx

  • Precision Targeting Direct delivery to tumors without systemic exposure and side effects.
  • Enhanced Efficacy Ultrasound activation ensures maximum potency of the chemotherapy drug at the tumor site.
  • Reduced Toxicity Non-toxic prodrug minimizes adverse effects on healthy tissues.
  • Versatile Platform Potential for adaptation to various types of cancer beyond colorectal cancer.
future outlook


Our Science

Future Directions

We are committed to broadening the application of our technology to other cancer types. By collaborating with leading oncologists and researchers, we strive to refine and optimize our platform for broader clinical use.

Our Science

Phase 1b Trial

NUP-1, our lead candidate, utilizes an innovative nanoparticle-delivered, ultrasound-activated chemotherapy approach, building on successful preclinical results. We are advancing directly to a Phase 1b clinical trial to evaluate its safety and efficacy in humans.

Our Science

The Results

The Phase 1b trial will take place in leading medical centers in Europe, ensuring rigorous oversight and high-quality data collection. Results from this trial are expected within 15 to 18 months, and successful outcomes will pave the way for further clinical development and eventual market entry.