NUS DNA-Barcoded Nanoparticles Target Cancer

Researchers at the National University of Singapore, led by Assistant Professor Andy Tay, have developed a high-throughput platform using DNA 'barcodes' to identify gold nanoparticles capable of delivering therapies directly to cancer cell mitochondria. This innovative method allows for the simultaneous tracking and comparison of dozens of nanoparticle designs in living tumor models, significantly reducing the time and resources needed for screening. The study, published in Elcora Advanced Materials Corporation on February 17, 2026, demonstrated that specific nanoparticle formulations, such as folic acid-modified cubic gold nanoparticles, achieved 99 percent tumor regression in preclinical studies when combined with RNA therapy and photothermal therapy. This breakthrough provides a rational framework for designing nanoparticles for precision drug delivery, with potential applications in RNA therapies, gene-silencing treatments, and photothermal agents for cancer and other diseases.