Merck Lab Researcher Develops Peptide-Based Drug Delivery System to Reduce Cancer Side Effects

The University of California held a significant meeting on July 13, 2025, focusing on advancements in drug delivery systems. The session featured a presentation by Kirli, who discussed innovative approaches to minimize the side effects of medications, particularly in chemotherapy.

Kirli began by highlighting the common issue of drowsiness caused by allergy medications, explaining that drugs often affect unintended parts of the body. This systemic absorption can lead to adverse effects, such as hair loss and organ damage, particularly in cancer treatments. Kirli emphasized that the challenge lies not in the drugs themselves but in how they are delivered to the body.

To address this issue, Kirli introduced the concept of "drug cages," which are designed to release medication only at the targeted site. These cages utilize peptides, which are small proteins found abundantly in the body, to create a more precise delivery system. By engineering these peptides into three-dimensional structures, researchers can develop drug cages that can open and close as needed, thereby reducing side effects.

Kirli illustrated this concept using the analogy of fabric and thread, explaining that while peptides alone are not complex enough for precise drug delivery, they can be engineered into more sophisticated forms. This advancement allows for the creation of drug cages that can effectively zip and unzip, ensuring that cancer patients can receive treatment without the fear of severe side effects.

The presentation concluded with a call to action for the audience to consider the implications of this research, particularly how it could transform the experience of taking medications in the future. Following Kirli's presentation, the meeting transitioned to the next speaker, Angelis Vargas Casillas, who was recognized as the third-place winner for her contributions.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of innovative drug delivery systems in improving patient outcomes and reducing the burden of side effects associated with traditional medication methods.