The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is investing up to $2 million in Nanite Inc. to explore a new way to deliver genetic therapies into the lung — delivery is one of the most significant challenges in creating a transformative treatment for all people with cystic fibrosis.

Nanite will be using artificial intelligence to narrow down the best polymer nanoparticle candidates. Nanite researchers believe they can program polymer nanoparticles to more accurately target lung cells and potentially better resist the thick, sticky mucus that clogs the lungs of people with CF.

At first, Nanite will work on developing polymer nanoparticles that can deliver messenger RNA therapy into the lungs. Eventually, Nanite hopes these nanoparticles can be used to deliver any type of genetic therapy and target other organs affected by CF, such as the pancreas.

The Foundation believes this early-stage research will help determine the feasibility of using polymer nanoparticles for CF. This investment is part of the Foundation’s $500 million Path to a Cure, an ambitious research initiative to accelerate treatments for everyone with CF and ultimately deliver a cure.