Scientists at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) have developed a breakthrough nanoscale system that can deliver multiple proteins into living cells to function as a miniature “drug factory,” potentially opening new pathways for targeted disease treatment.
The research demonstrates that six different proteins can be encapsulated and transported into mammalian cells using engineered nanoscale carriers. Once inside, the proteins work together in a coordinated sequence to produce violacein, a compound with potential therapeutic properties.
Read More: Pakistani, Saudi universities build advanced VTOL surveillance drone
According to the study published in Advanced Materials, the system represents a major step forward in combining nanotechnology, materials science and bioengineering to create functional biological systems inside cells.
Researchers used porous, sponge-like metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) to protect and carry the proteins without destroying their activity. These structures act like synthetic compartments, mimicking natural cellular organelles.
Once delivered into cells, the proteins remain active and execute a multi-step biochemical pathway, effectively converting an amino acid into a final bioactive compound. Scientists say this is the most complex protein system ever successfully introduced into living cells.
Lead researchers explained that previous attempts at intracellular protein delivery were limited to one or two proteins at a time due to stability challenges. The KAUST team’s innovation allows an entire functional biological pathway to be transported as a single unit.
The platform could eventually enable therapies that generate drugs directly inside diseased cells, reducing side effects by limiting activity to targeted tissues rather than affecting the whole body.
Researchers also highlighted that the system can be adapted to dierent biological pathways, potentially allowing customizable treatments for various diseases in the future.
Read More: Scientists discover a color never before seen by humans
While the technology is still in early development and has not yet been tested in humans, the team plans to conduct further experiments in animal models to evaluate safety and effectiveness.
Experts say the breakthrough highlights the growing convergence of biology and nanotechnology, which may reshape future approaches to precision medicine and drug delivery.