The research team aims to initiate clinical trials within five years, focusing on enhancing immune responses in cancer patients to improve therapeutic outcomes, particularly for those unresponsive to existing immunotherapies.

A study published on June 20, 2025, in the Journal of the American Chemical Society highlights how these nanomachines reactivate cytotoxic CD8-positive T cells that are inactivated by TGF-β1 protein secreted by cancer cells in lymph nodes.

Researchers from The University of Tokyo and the Innovation Center of NanoMedicine have developed innovative precision nanomachines designed to deliver gene therapy directly to sentinel lymph nodes, significantly suppressing the spread of breast cancer.

These dynamic nanomachines, measuring just 10 nm, are engineered to deliver antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) that inhibit TGF-β1 expression, enhancing the immune response against breast cancer metastasis.

The success of this approach stems from the precise adjustment of amino acid sequences in the polymers and the molecular weight of polyethylene glycol (PEG), which optimize ASO encapsulation and distribution.

Utilizing a specific amino acid structure, these nanomachines are designed to navigate the lymphatic system more effectively than traditional lipid nanoparticles, which tend to be larger and less efficient.

As they continue to develop this nanomedicine technology, the researchers are optimistic about the potential impact of these dynamic nanomachines on future cancer treatments.

Experimental results in mouse models demonstrated that the application of these nanomachines led to reduced TGF-β1 levels, reactivation of CD8-positive T cells, and a significant decrease in cancer recurrence and lung metastasis following breast cancer surgery.

These findings suggest a promising new therapy for advanced breast cancers, including triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), which currently lacks effective treatment options.