Molecular gated Eco-MOFs for anti-cancer drug delivery

Cancer is a major societal challenge, as reflected by Horizon's Europe mission on cancer and Europe's Beating Cancer Plan.

In particular, despite great advances in cancer treatment in recent decades, its treatment still remains a challenge without an effective cure.

In 2020 the EU reported around 3 million new cancer cases and more than 1.2 million deaths, and its incidence is expected to increase in Europe due to its aging population.

The standard treatment relies on the systemic administration of chemotherapeutics, which has limited efficacy and causes side effects.

To overcome current limitations, GateMOF will develop low-toxicity Molecular Organic Frameworks (MOFs) as advanced nanosystems to tackle cancer.

Such Eco-MOFs will be equipped with molecular gates and loaded with anticancer drugs resulting in advanced biocompatible nanosystems with the ability to respond to stimuli present in the tumor intracellular/microenvironment for a selective anticancer drug delivery.

The project combines the unique expertise of the host laboratory (Supramolecular Chemistry and Biotechnology) and the candidate (MOF design and synthesis) to ensure the fulfillment of objectives.

The fellow will be trained in advanced nanomaterial preparation with molecular gates to obtain stimuli-responsive MOFs for anti-cancer drug delivery, including training for biological studies for their evaluation in vitro in cells and in vivo in animal models. Notably, the project will also allow the fellow to gain experience in patenting and tech transfer.

Altogether, GateMOF will develop a new therapeutic technology and provide the fellow with complementary scientific and transferable skills with a significant impact toward an independent research career.