Scientists Develop Targeted Therapy for Endometriosis

Researchers use a specialized delivery method to treat endometriosis lesions in mice using a repurposed tapeworm drug.

Updated on Oct. 19, 2026 in Women’s Health

Macro view of a crystalline molecular dendrimer structure floating in clear fluid, representing a new medical drug delivery technology. — Washington State University researchers have developed a targeted drug delivery system using dendrimers to treat endometriosis lesions more effectively. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Washington State University researchers have developed a targeted delivery system for niclosamide to address endometriosis lesions. The study, published in August, demonstrates the potential of this repurposed drug when paired with a water-soluble dendrimer structure.

Why it matters

Standard oral forms of niclosamide dissolve poorly in water and struggle to reach targeted sites, limiting treatment efficacy for endometriosis. This new delivery method aims to bypass those constraints to treat lesions directly through immune cell protein binding.

In a study of mice, 62.5% of subjects receiving a high dose showed no detectable lesions two weeks after treatment. This drug is currently being investigated for potential use against various other conditions, including bowel, brain, and breast cancers.

The players

Washington State University

This is a public research university that serves as the home for the research team developing the niclosamide delivery method.

The details

The treatment utilizes a dendrimer scaffolding infused with folic acid, which binds to FR-beta proteins found in high concentrations on immune cells within endometrial lesions. By injecting the drug-laden structure directly into the abdomen, scientists can trigger a localized release of the medication.

August: Study results were published in Advanced Healthcare Materials.
Two weeks after treatment: Mice showed no detectable lesions.

The Big Picture

This study follows a pattern set by the repurposing of niclosamide for cancer treatment by exploring its efficacy against inflammatory conditions. It marks a departure from traditional systemic drug delivery by utilizing protein-binding scaffolds to increase local efficacy.

The development could eventually provide a new, non-surgical treatment option for those suffering from endometriosis. While the research is currently limited to animal models, it aims to create a once-a-fortnight injection that could significantly reduce the burden of long-term diagnosis and treatment.

The takeaway

This research highlights the potential of drug repurposing to provide faster therapeutic solutions for chronic conditions. Readers should note that while results in mice are promising, the treatment remains in the early stages of development and is not yet available for human use.