Ohsu Knight Cancer Institute

• OHSU researchers have developed innovative nanoparticles that significantly improve high-intensity focused ultrasound cancer treatments by reducing required energy levels up to 100-fold, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. • The engineered nanoparticles feature surface bubbles that release energy when targeted with ultrasound, plus peptide coatings that help them adhere to tumors and deliver chemotherapy drugs directly to cancer cells. • In preclinical melanoma models, the combination therapy led to complete tumor elimination in some cases and improved survival beyond 60 days, demonstrating potential for treating hard-to-reach tumors with minimal side effects.