A tiny implantable device can deliver cancer treatment directly to tumours to stop their growth, a new study in mice has shown.

Researchers at Houston Methodist Hospital, USA, developed the device – based on fluids containing nanoparticles – to deliver the treatment to the tumours of mice with pancreatic cancer.

This so-called ‘nanofluidic’ approach provides more controlled and long-term drug delivery, at a lower dosage than previously needed, and directly targets the tumour avoiding other side effects to the body.

The researchers hope the technology could treat human cancer patients in the next five years.

Dr Alessandro Grattoni, at Houston Methodist, said: “We see this device as a viable approach to penetrating the pancreatic tumour in a minimally invasive and effective manner, allowing for a more focused therapy using less medication.”

End