Mylc: mycoplasma pneumoniae as minimal lung bacterial chassis to deliver locally therapeutic proteins for the treatment of non-small cell lung carcinoma

The Defense Health Agency (DHA) awarded Universitat Autonoma De Barcelona (UAB) a Project Grant totaling $552,856 under the Military Medical Research and Development program (CFDA 12.420) effective June 1, 2025, through May 31, 2028. The project, titled "MYLC: Mycoplasma pneumoniae as Minimal Lung Bacterial Chassis to Deliver Locally Therapeutic Proteins for the Treatment of Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma," focuses on advanced biomedical research aimed at developing novel therapeutic interventions for non-small cell lung cancer. The research will be conducted at UAB's facility in Spain and represents a three-year investigation into utilizing Mycoplasma pneumoniae as a bacterial delivery platform for localized therapeutic protein administration.

This award aligns with the DHA's strategic priorities in cancer research and translational medicine, supporting hypothesis-driven research that bridges basic science with clinical applications relevant to military and public health interests. The project combines fundamental bacteriology with targeted cancer therapeutics, contributing to the program's broader objective of transforming healthcare through innovative biomedical solutions. As with all Military Medical Research and Development awards, the research undergoes rigorous two-tier peer and programmatic review to ensure technical merit and alignment with military health priorities.