Becky Chen

We developed a pH-responsive lipid–gelatin–protamine nanozyme that delivers glucose oxidase to hepatocellular carcinoma, selectively depleting intratumoral glucose and inducing oxidative stress. This metabolic reprogramming sensitizes tumors to apoptosis, promotes immunogenic cell death, and enhances antitumor immunity. When combined with doxorubicin and PD-1 checkpoint blockade, the nanozyme overcomes therapeutic resistance and achieves durable tumor control in orthotopic HCC models....

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most difficult cancers to treat because it is surrounded by a dense fibrotic barrier that blocks drugs and immune cells from reaching the tumor. To address this challenge, we developed a stroma-targeted immunogene therapy specifically for pancreatic cancer. Instead of delivering immune proteins directly, we use a smart nanoparticle to carry a gene encoding the immune-stimulating cytokine IL-2 into the tumor microenvironment. This allows cells within the tumor...

After breast cancer surgery, tiny leftover cancer cells can remain in the body and cause the tumor to return. We developed a soft, sponge-like gel that acts as a dendritic cell vaccine , placed directly at the surgical site to help the immune system eliminate these remaining cancer cells. Dendritic cells are “teacher” cells of the immune system—they show T cells what to attack. Our gel keeps these dendritic cells alive and active while slowly releasing chemotherapy and an immune checkpoint...