NJIT Researcher Uses Nanoparticles to Develop Cancer Therapies

NJIT’s Kathleen McEnnis, assistant professor of chemical and materials engineering, is pioneering a new approach in cancer treatment through innovative drug-delivery nanoparticles. 

Her research focuses on treating aggressive types of breast cancer, using platinum-based nanoparticles that target cancer cells without damaging healthy tissue. This breakthrough could mark a significant step forward in minimizing the side effects of chemotherapy.

McEnnis’s research team has found that these platinum nanoparticles, tested in vitro, effectively kill cancer cells while sparing healthy ones — an ideal outcome in targeted cancer therapy. Their work, funded by METAvivor, seeks to address a critical challenge: crossing the blood-brain barrier to treat cancer that has metastasized to the brain.

I wanted to make sure the work I did made a difference in the world.

Leveraging specialized cells capable of passing through this barrier, the research aims to transport these nanoparticles directly to brain tumors, potentially offering a more precise and less toxic option for patients with metastatic breast cancer.

METAvivor is a nonprofit organization that funds metastatic breast cancer research. Its live global campaign, LightUpMBC 2024, educated and raised funds for research in this area and featured researchers, celebrity guests and survivor stories. The full livestream program can be viewed on METAvivor’s Youtube channel.

For a closer look at McEnnis’s cutting-edge work and its potential impact on cancer treatment, watch the video below where she discusses the science and goals behind this promising research.