Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) Chemistry Professor Dr. Margaret Ndinguri, along with University of Kentucky Associate Professor Dr. Lindsay Cormier, recently received a continuation patent for their cancer research. The patent’s research focuses on combining compounds that are attracted to and target cancer cells for the purpose of detection or the delivering of chemotherapy.
“Receiving a patent like this is an excellent example of the innovation that is constantly happening at EKU,” said EKU President David McFaddin. “Our dedicated faculty and excellent research capacity prove that EKU has established itself as a destination for science and healthcare discovery in Kentucky and beyond.”
Ndinguri and Cormier’s first patent for cancer research came in 2018 for a targeted chemotherapy treatment that they developed in collaboration with biology faculty. The continuation patent is based on the 2018 patent. Though the continuation was recently granted, the process to attain the patent began in 2016, when the original application was filed.
“The researchers’ long-term goal is the development of chemotherapeutics for the treatment of reproductive cancers, and this patent is a big step forward in their journey,” said Dr. Tom Otieno, dean of EKU’s College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
Research at EKU makes a significant impact in STEM and health science fields. With a focus on applied research, faculty and students work hand-in-hand to address real-world challenges. Through state-of-the-art and well-equipped labs, research opportunities and ground-breaking patents, EKU continues to drive meaningful discoveries that will benefit Kentuckians for years to come.
“It is a testament to the innovativeness of the faculty in the College of STEM,” said Otieno. “It speaks to the high quality of research taking place at EKU and to the exceptional hands-on experiences that can be afforded to our students. I am very proud of our faculty.”
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